Thomas P. Kiley, age 84, of Appleton, died peacefully at home on Thursday, January 23, 2025 surrounded by family and friends. Tom was born November 27, 1940 in Appleton to the late G. Willard and Dorothy (Van Gorp) Kiley. He married his wife, Jude, on November 17, 1962. A dedicated lifelong resident of Appleton, he was a 1959 graduate of Appleton High School.
Tom started his work life in the paper industry before moving to sales. From Prange Way to The Bulletin and then for 30+ years at The Sleep Shop where he was known as “Futon Tom.” Tom would try to sell you anything (and buy anything) because it was a “good deal.” He could strike up a friendly conversation with anyone whether it was at breakfast in the cafeteria at St. Elizabeth or over a beer at his favorite dive bar.
Tom’s interests included feeding the animals in his yard, hanging out in the gazebo with his best buddy, Boo the cat, watching the Packers, and enjoying classic cars, especially Studebakers. He was highly creative with his sketches, carvings, and giant snow sculptures including the infamous naked lady.
He is survived by his daughters: Kristine (Jeff) Alarie of The Villages, FL and Kerri (Mark) Koerner of Greenville, WI. Grandchild Matthew (Laura) Koerner; great grandchild Cameron Koerner; brothers Mike (Patty) Kiley and Terry (Terri) Kiley all of Appleton, WI; sister-in-law Joy (Doug) Stern; brother-in-law Danny (Rose) Thorne. He is further survived by many nieces and nephews.
Tom was preceded in death by his wife Jude (Thorne) Kiley; son Tommy Kiley; his parents; brother John Kiley; sister Ellen Lappen; brother Pat Kiley; and many other loved ones.
For much of Tom’s life, he had an intense fear of death that led him to abandon his faith. In the 1980s, he was invited to a Cursillo spiritual retreat where he had an encounter with the Holy Spirit and surrendered his heart to Jesus Christ. Fear left him, replaced by an unshakable faith that remained until his last breath.
A Celebration of Life will take place from 12–3pm on Saturday, February 8 at The Appleton Yacht Club, 1200 S. Lutz Drive, Appleton, WI. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established.
Heartfelt thanks to lifelong friends and cherished neighbors, Cheri and Al Boldt who loved Tom like their own family and shared a beer over many outdoor gatherings and conversations.
A special thanks to Chris Sankey who may not share in Tom’s DNA, but was a cherished part of the family and loved by Tom. Thank you for always being a helping hand and caring friend.
Additional thanks to Moments Hospice for going above and beyond in our family’s time of need.
Tom, say hi to those who’ve gone before. We’re sure your wife, Jude is saying, “Hey Tom, what took you so long? Grab a beer. We finally have a fifth for Sheepshead.”
To order memorial trees in memory of Thomas P. Kiley, please visit our tree store.
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