Thomas Philip Kelnhofer

Thomas Philip Kelnhofer, known to many as Tom, passed away on September 28, 2026, in Brookfield, Wisconsin. He was born on February 21, 1942, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Tom lived a life of service, dedication, and deep commitment to his community. He proudly served in the United States Army for six years, from 1960 to 1966. During his military service, he traveled to Europe and Southeast Asia, eventually making his way to Thailand, where he operated a Consolidated Mess Hall that fed more than 1,500 people each day while also overseeing the operation of six remote signal sites. This period stood as one of the most meaningful chapters of his life.

Following his military service, Tom devoted 32 years to a long and distinguished career with the United Postal Service. His commitment to working with people and retirees was evident in his service as Director of Retirees for the Letter Carriers Union. He also served as president of the local chapter of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association and as a board member of the United States Selective Service System. Year after year, he worked with the Letter Carriers Union on the Food Drive, Stamp Out Hunger, reflecting his enduring concern for neighbors in need. Among the accomplishments he valued most was his involvement with the Combined Federal Campaign of Southeastern Wisconsin. When he first became involved, the annual fund drive raised $150,000; through the years, that effort grew to raise more than $600,000.

Tom appreciated the religious education he received at Don Bosco High School and St. Rita Catholic Grade School, and that foundation remained important throughout his life. He was a lifelong member of St. Rita Parish and gave generously of his time as a volunteer usher. He loved politics, enjoyed reading the newspaper, and had a big heart for dogs, especially beagles he rescued.

He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Kelnhofer; his mother, Helen Kelnhofer; his brothers, Mark Kelnhofer and Joseph Kelnhofer; his sister, Karen Heim; his niece, Cecelia Feeley; and his sister-in-law, Agnes Kelnhofer.

He will be remembered with love as a beloved uncle by Annie and Steve Heim-Rowe; Tom and Denise Heim; Joseph Kelnhofer; Philip Kelnhofer and Michelle Briand, and Robert and Elinor Kelnhofer. Tom will be missed by his brother-in-law Thomas Heim, and his sister-in-law Sara Kierzek. He is further survived by many grand nieces and nephews, other family and many friends. 

A Memorial Gathering will be held on Friday, October 9, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. at Max A. Sass & Sons Funeral and Cremation Greenridge Chapel, 4747 S. 60th Street, Greenfield, WI 53220, followed by a Prayer Service at 10:30 a.m. Burial will take place at 11:30 a.m. at Saint Adalbert Cemetery, 3801 South 6th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53221. In lieu of flowers memorials appreciated to Hunger Task Force of Southeast Wisconsin, Beagle Freedom Project or St. Barnabas Church. 

Tom’s life was marked by service to his country, dedication to his work, faithfulness to his parish, and care for others. He will be remembered with respect, gratitude, and affection.