Thomas “Tom” Schipper, age 68, of Fairfield, passed away unexpectedly at home on Sunday, April 5, 2026.
Tom was born on July 2, 1957, in Manitowoc and was raised by his mother, Judith “Judy” Lyons. He graduated from Burlington High School and went on to begin a career in the printing industry. Tom dedicated 35 years of his life to Perry Printing in Baraboo.
Tom met the love of his life, Rita Throndson, and they were united in marriage on September 25, 1994.
Tom loved riding motorcycles and enjoyed taking his bike to visit friends. When he wasn’t out on the road, he could often be found in his yard, tending to his plants and flowers.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 31 years, Rita; two sisters, Jeannette and Kathy (Bill); his mother-in-law, Delores; as well as many aunts, uncles, nieces, and a nephew. He is further survived by many dear friends.
Tom was preceded in death by his mother, Judy; brother, Scott; aunt, Nancy; uncle, Tom; as well as his grandparents.
Memorial Services for Tom will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Redlin-Ertz Funeral Home with Pastor Roxi Gnatzig officiating. Visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in North Freedom.
Honoring Tom’s laid-back spirit, guests are encouraged to dress casually, just as he would have preferred.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Sauk County’s K-9 Unit or to your local Fire and EMS.
Brian zastrow April 08, 2026
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
My sympathy to toms wife and family . I worked with tom at perry printing Brian Zastrow
Daniel Howard April 08, 2026
Baraboo Baraboo , Wisconsin
Prayers to Tom's family worked many years with Tom at perry he will be missed
Rose Vertein April 08, 2026
Friend North Freedom , Wisconsin
Rita, So sorry for your loss. May God comfort you now and always.
Brenda Emery April 08, 2026
Friend North Freedom , Wisconsin
Sorry to hear of Tom's passing. Sending prayers for comfort & peace during this difficult time. Hugs to Rita & family. Rest easy Tom
Maya Miller April 08, 2026
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
Tom was such an easy going person to work with. He had a wealth of knowledge and we used to share a joke or two. Condolences to his family. Ride in peace.
Linda Landin-Walter April 08, 2026
Friend Reedsburg , Wisconsin
My deepest sympathies Rita. Rest in peace Tom
Sherry Karstetter April 09, 2026
Friend LaValle , Wisconsin
Had the pleasure of working with Tom for many years taking forms off his press. Condolences to Rita and Tom's family.
Deb Almerli April 09, 2026
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
To Rita and family...I'm so sorry for your loss.
Robert Spencer April 09, 2026
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
So sad to hear about Tom's passing. He definitely enjoyed life on the seat of a motorcycle. Such a nice guy, he will be surely missed.
Karen Stieve April 10, 2026
Friend North Freedom , Wisconsin
Rita, so sorry for your loss. Sending hugs and prayers.
Jeff Sprecher April 10, 2026
friend baraboo , Wisconsin
Rita and family, I met Tom at Perry Printing. He was a friend and neighbor in Fairfield.. I always got a wave when we met on the road from his seat on his bike. We had some nice chats when we would meet around town. Gail and I are sending our condolences. He was a good man.
Karen Dawson April 10, 2026
Classmate Kansasville , Wisconsin
Speaking for the Burlington High School class of 76! Deeply sorry for the loss of another classmate! Saw Tom at the 40th…, forever in our hearts! Rest in peace Tom! …, Karen
John W Alt April 10, 2026
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
Rita: Tom was such an active rider and friend to all in our group. He will be sorely missed. John and Jean Alt
Miriam Helms April 10, 2026
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
Rita I'm so sorry for your loss. Sending tons of hugs
Scott Seiler April 11, 2026
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
I worked at Perry Judds and talked to Tom when he worked on Press 5. I always enjoyed our chats about all things BMW motorcycles and went on a few rides together. I will miss seeing him at the Slimey Crud Run and seeing him riding his bikes around Baraboo. My thoughts and Prayers to his wife, Rita.
Richard Kloster April 17, 2026
Friend Prairie du Sac , Wisconsin
Rode motorcycles with Tom, usually on Wednesdays. Always enjoyed talking with him on variety of topics. I and everyone in our group will really miss him. I am so sorry for your loss, Rita.
James Voigtlander April 20, 2026
friend BARABOO , Wisconsin
So Sorry to hear this, Tom was a good guy I will miss Him and our conversations my prayers for him and his wife .
Heather Ethier April 22, 2026
Friend Severna Park , Maryland
Rita, my sisters and I were so sad to hear of Tom’s passing. He was such a good friend to our dad and an all around special guy. We are thinking of you.