Tom Dugolenski

Tom Dugolenski, 75, passed away on September 8, 2026. Born on August 12, 1951, he grew up in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Tom will be remembered for his kindness, his generous heart, and the thoughtful way he made others feel seen and valued.

Intelligent, well read, caring, and loving, Tom was a wonderful listener and a steady source of support for those around him. He had a special gift for noticing the person sitting alone, seeking them out, and engaging them in conversation. His kindness was reflected in the everyday attention he gave to others.

Tom began his career as a manager at Dean Medical and later worked as a health technician with the Beaver Dam Hearing Study. His career also included work as a sleep study technician. In retirement, Tom was a dedicated advocate for people with disabilities. As a job coach at Green Valley Enterprises, he helped individuals develop job skills and prepare to enter the workforce, offering encouragement and support as they built confidence and greater independence.

His commitment to helping others extended throughout the community. For more than ten years, he was an integral part of the Beaver Dam Community Meals program. He also helped with Thanksgiving meal deliveries and school supply collections in Beaver Dam and served as a child mentor through the Beaver Dam Unified School District’s PAL—Partners Are Learning—program.

His children and grandchildren were among the greatest joys of his life. While his children were growing up, Tom was deeply involved in their baseball and softball activities. Games of catch often lasted well into the evening, until they switched to a glow baseball so they could keep playing after dark. Any opportunity to see or talk with his children and grandchildren lit up his life.

Tom loved sharing travel, music, the theatre, and everyday life with his beloved partner, Rebecca. Together, they traveled to Italy, made multiple trips to Mexico, and explored destinations throughout the country. They especially enjoyed jazz concerts in Door County. Tom’s favorite musical was Hamilton, which he saw in several Broadway theatre productions. His enthusiasm even inspired a Disney+ subscription so he could watch it again and again at home.

An active runner earlier in his life, Tom enjoyed spending time outdoors hiking, biking, running, and finding new ways to stay active. Whether attending a performance, exploring a new place, or spending time with loved ones, he found joy in shared experiences.

Tom is survived by his loving partner, Rebecca; his children, Bria, Josef (Jill), and Madeline; his grandchildren, Sonny, Gia, Tony, and Dominic; his brother, David; and his sisters, Kathy and Ellen. He is also survived by Rebecca’s children, Kalyn, Nathan, and Kyle, and their foreign exchange student from Mexico, Richi.

Tom is deeply missed. His kindness, his love, and his ability to make others feel heard will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the many people whose lives he touched.

A celebration of Tom’s life will be held on November 1, 2026, from 2 to 5 p.m. in Kindy Hall at Grace Presbyterian Church, Beaver Dam, WI. A special blessing and sharing of memories will take place at 3 p.m., followed by a meal. Family and friends are warmly invited to gather, share stories, and celebrate Tom’s life.