Thomas Pinkalla

Thomas Warren Pinkalla, who never met a stranger, left us November 1st 2022 after a tragic accident at the age of 80. Born to Esther and Ervin Pinkalla, Tom grew up on Loomis Rd. in Greenfield with his siblings Yvonne (Harold Schroeder), Yvette (Ed Kachellek), Michael, and Christine (Len Dams). Tom found great joy wrenching on cars and engines of all kinds. From his early days at the local dirt track to the latest NASCAR race, his love of racing was lifelong. Tom was a proud Army Veteran who served in Vietnam as part of the Big Red One. His considerable mechanical skills were valued in the motor pool. He started Tech-Ni-Fab Inc. with 3 partners, and worked for decades designing, building and installing conveyor systems. After "retirement" he started another company, working for years on his own. He enjoyed the challenges of installing conveyors in new locations and the people that he met. Tom was an amazing dad to Mark and wife Joanne, and the most generous, loving grandpa to Sydney and Cole. He spent months at a time with them in New Mexico, sharing in their adventures and creating many happy memories. He spent countless days with best friend Daryl, along with his hangar and breakfast club buddies. Tom was a guy who made others' problems his own, doing whatever he could to help. He thought outside of the box, could fix anything, loved tinkering in his shop and finding new uses for old things. He loved being in nature and spending time up at the cabin deer hunting (the deer had the better record). Visitation: Wednesday, November 9th from 3 – 6 at Schramka-Borgwardt Funeral Home in Hales Corners. Thank you to all at the VA, Tom appreciated each and every one of you. From our favorite Bucks fan at the entrance to the medical professionals, the staff at Froedtert Hospital was overwhelmingly supportive and uplifting. Especially grateful for Jessica, Dr. Lau, Pam, Jean, Sarah, Keely, Darcy, Maria and Ashley. Tom was a simple, humble, selfless man. He overcame great obstacles with persistence and dedication. You can honor his life through the giving of yourself to others: listening, sharing, connecting and appreciating. A friend to all, he made your day better with his warm smile and friendly hello, coffee cup in hand. Gone way too soon, he is reunited with his love Sue. We're really going to miss you Dad, hope you finally get that deer.