Where Caring Is A Family Tradition
Where Caring Is A Family Tradition
Thomas Charles Breaker aka “Bumpa”, age 77, went to the big truck stop in the sky on Friday, October 11, 2024, after a brief illness. Tom was born on March 25, 1947, to Ray and June (Bahrke) Breaker.
Tom graduated from Winneconne High School class of 1965. On May 27, 1967, he married Linda Wightman. Tom is survived by his wife of 57 years, Linda Breaker; his mother, June Breaker; sister, Nancy (Don) Prahl; daughters, Mardy Breaker and Jenni Breaker; his grandchildren, Daniel Thomas Breaker (Tianna Howe); Sydney Breaker (Kenton Chapman); his great-grandchildren, Bentley Thomas Chapman, Alaia Marie Chapman; and many other nieces, nephews, cousins and all other relatives.
In addition to his father, Ray Breaker, Tom was preceded in death by his brother, John Breaker; grandparents, Reuben and Nora (Christianson) Breaker; His father-in-law and mother-in-law Grant “Noisy” Wightman and Barb Wightman; and his dogs, Duke and Skeet.
Tom and Linda built a house in the Village of Winneconne, but he never lost his love for the country. In October of 1979 they moved to the country, where they have remained for 44 years and has become what the family calls headquarters! Tom was easily distracted by tractors as he worked at his grandparent’s farm from a young age with his Grandpa Reuben. After leaving the farm, Tom got his love of trucking from his father Ray and father-in-law Grant Wightman. Tom drove truck for various companies in his career among them includes: Zimmerman Mink Ranch, Menasha Corporation, Checker Logistics/Verhia for many years.
Tom’s hobbies included taking care of his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all his dogs. He also took great pride in mowing the lawn; he had to have it a certain way just like his father Ray. He loved to hunt on the opening morning with his best friend and grandson Daniel. He also always enjoyed happy hour at George Kresal’s house, there was always b.s. to be shared. He was always out in his shed tinkering and fixing things! He taught his kids a lot and for that we are forever thankful.
Honoring Tom’s wishes there will be no funeral service.
A celebration of Tom’s life will be held Saturday, November 2, 2024, from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. at Winkler’s Westward Ho 4905 County Hwy S, Oshkosh 54904.
The family asks that you please consider any memorial contribution in Tom’s name to: Winneconne-Poygan First Responders/Fire District P.O. Box 339 Winneconne 54986 or Grace Lutheran Church of Winchester 8396 Steeple Hill Dr. Larsen, WI 54947
Mueller Funeral Home-Winneconne is assisting the family. If you wish, please submit condolences/memories to muellerfh.net.
The man, the myth, the legend... RIP Bumpa. Daniel has the reign now – you taught him well, you would be so proud.
You will be remembered always in our hearts.
Gary Johnson wrote on October 25, 2024
Condolences to Linda and the family! Tom was a life long friend even though we didn't see a lot of each other. Memories from our school days and hunting together will remain. He loved sharing life with his family! Treasure the great memories and good time shared!!! God bless Tom!!!
Mel Koneman wrote on October 20, 2024
So sorry to hear of your loss Tom was a great guy he will be missed
Karen "Sam" Eiden Bellin wrote on October 19, 2024
Linda, Mardy, Jenny....My sincerest sympathy goes out to you for your loss of Tom/Dad. I drive by your house so much and I'd see Tom mowing the lawn and I'd just lay on the horn and think I should pull in and "chit-chat" with you all, and say oh next time I go by....and then time keeps going by and by so fast it's too late...when I got sent to Winneconne school in 3rd grade from Winchester, I was so scared and didn't have any friends, my dad had passed away the same year, but as I stood alone by the recess wall almost in tears...Mardy came over by me and asked "what's your name?" We both went home that night, told our parents about the girl at school....and turns out we were told we were cousins! We were friends from that day on and I have to say.....Tom & Linda were my extended parents....I was always staying at their house and going camping with them...sweetest people on earth I swear! As we grew older and got our driver's licenses....(me being first) it seems I could get away with a bit more at the Breakers (as my mom was a bit stricter,which is ok lol) Mardy and I convinced Tom and Linda to let us take the truck to go out for the night since I could drive and all ....it wasn't an easy task but they allowed it and Jenny even came with us...we came home safe and sound, but I always wondered how much they worried that night...you are awesome, caring, thoughtful parents....you are always in my thoughts...even thru some up and downs in mine and Mardy's friendship...I will always feel like u are my extended family. May it bring comfort in knowing Tom is in a wonderful place now and we will all see him again one day soon....Love you all...."Sam"
Dean Briesemeister wrote on October 19, 2024
Where do I start. Tom was one of the hardest workers I have ever known. I hired Tom as a driver after he was at Menasha Corp. I was the Driver Manager at Checker Logistics. He never said "no" to any load he was given. Tom was definitely "old school" trucking! He was an excellent mentor to the young new drivers. I remember the day dispatch had a hot load going to GA and could not find anyone able to cover. I called Tom and and asked him how many hours he had available to drive (Log book bullshit) and his response was "How many do you need". Needless to say, he made it happen!! He will be missed. The world needs more Tom Breakers! Linda and Danny, my thoughts and prayers go out to you. See you on November 2nd.
Mary Pence wrote on October 18, 2024
The Pence family sends love to the Breaker clan. What a great tribute to Tom, he lived his life to the fullest and shared his insight with his loved ones.
Myron Loehrke wrote on October 18, 2024
Tom you will missed a lot. I enjoyed calling you and talking about trucking farms everything. Was always enjoyment. Asking about your mom and how the rest of the family is doing. Your going to be riding with me everyday now with John also listen to polka music. It was a pleasure knowing you and working with you
Loretta & Jim Cizek wrote on October 17, 2024
Linda
We were sorry to hear of Tom passing. He was always the same friendly person. We know you will miss him terribly, but certain that you will remember and cherish all the great years you had together.
Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Warmest Regards
Lori & Jim
Mopher wrote on October 17, 2024
L??VE this picture of Tom. He was an amazing brother in law. The Obituary is so true to who Tom was.He will be missed by all of us.
Jan Cruz wrote on October 17, 2024
Sending my deepest condolences to Linda and family. May God hold you during this difficult time.
Tim. Hewitt wrote on October 17, 2024
Linda
I Truly sorry to Read about thee trucker for many years Tommy
May he enjoy the rewards of eternal Life