Thomas James Woods

A livestream of the Mass of Christian Burial for Thomas can be viewed at the bottom of this obituary starting at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, April 9, 2022.

Thomas James Woods, loving husband, father, and grandfather passed away on March 21, 2022, with his family by his side.

Tom was born in Ladysmith, Wisconsin on November 18, 1950, to parents Raymond and Yvonne Woods. He was married to Nancy Hedler on November 11, 1972. They settled in Neillsville, WI, in 1979 where Tom worked in law enforcement for 28 years and spent the last 17 years of his career as the Chief of Police.

Tom had an interest and love for many hobbies: He was a gunsmith, he loved woodworking, hunting, fishing, bee keeping, restoring old cars, leather work, wine making, and motorcycles, just to name a few. He loved sharing his interests with his family and friends. Tom and Nancy enjoyed weekends up north in the Holcombe area during the summer months, where they had many family and friends. 

He is survived by his loving wife Nancy (Hedler) Woods; son, Clinton Woods, his wife Julie (Ziegler) and their children, Lexi, Layne and Lars; daughter, Amanda (Woods) Bockenfeld, her husband Jim and their children, Deacon, Layla and Owen. His mother, Yvonne (Jenness) Woods; Sister, Diane (John) Zagozen; brothers Duane (Kathy) Woods and Brad (Laurie) Woods; sister-in-law Karen Woods, and many nieces and nephews. 

He is preceded in death by his father Raymond Woods, brother Donald Woods, father-in-law Francis “Deacon” Hedler, and brother-in-law Dennis Hedler.

Tom’s family would like to thank the multitude of family, friends and neighbors who took the time to help and care for both Tom and Nancy on this difficult path. A special thank you to two of Tom’s constant caregivers in his final year, Sharrie Langreck and Mariah Wilhelm, who not only provided care, but loved him like he was their own. In addition, Scott and Barb Krultz, who have gone above and beyond in supporting both Tom and Nancy. Thank you to Tom’s closest friends, the card players, who continued to come out to the house and play cards long after he was unable to speak or hold cards. To the entire hospice team, thank you for helping us navigate this past year. Finally, thank you to the ALS Association for the continuous support they provided. Our depth of appreciation for everyone that fought this battle with us is never ending.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, April 9, 2022, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Neillsville, WI.  Father Greg Michaud will officiate.  Music will be provided by Sue Hedler. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Friday, April 8, 2022, with a 6:00 p.m. eulogy service at the Gesche Funeral Home and from 9:30 a.m. to 10:20 a.m., Saturday, April 9 at the Gesche Funeral Home.  Inurnment will be in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery. A livestream of the Mass of Christian Burial for Tom can be viewed at www.geschefh.com beginning at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, April 9^th.

Honorary casket bearers are Mike Perkl, Jim Mills, Joe Holman, Bruce Hadler, Mike Schultz and Butch Carl.

Online Condolences may be made at www.geschefh.com.

Gesche Funeral Home and Cremation Service is assisting Tom’s family.