Thomas Paynter

Thomas B. "Tom" Paynter, age 62 of Waldwick, WI went home to be with The Lord on Tuesday, December 12, 2023 after battling with the side effects of cancer treatments. He was born April 26, 1961, the son of Robert "Bob" and Glenda (Tagatz) Paynter. Tom was raised in Waldwick and graduated from Mineral Point High School. Following high school, he graduated from Southwest Wisconsin Technical College. In 1995 Tom married the love of his life, Tammy Althaus Funk at the First Baptist Church in Darlington. Tom's early years were spent in Waldwick and Mineral Point, where he graduated from high school before furthering his education at Southwest Wisconsin Tech, Fennimore. It was here that he laid the groundwork for what would become a diverse and successful professional life. Tom's passion for music saw him excel as a talented drummer and sound man, playing and touring with the Kick's Band and several others throughout the 1980s. His love for music didn't stop there; in the 1990s, he created his own DJ Service, "1 Hot DJ". In addition to his musical talents, Tom was an entrepreneur at heart. He owned and operated a video/electronics store, which served as a steppingstone to his later ventures. With a knack for troubleshooting and a commitment to service, Tom entered the heating and cooling field, where he dedicated many years of his life. In 2006, alongside his wife and best friend, Tammy, he co-founded "Tri State Technical," a successful HVAC business that stands as a testament to his hard work and vision. Tom's interests reflected his multifaceted personality. A born-again believer, his faith was the cornerstone of his existence, guiding his actions in loving, serving, and giving to others. He was a grill master. An avid sports fan, Tom could often be found cheering on the Badgers, Packers, Detroit Red Wings and Chicago Blackhawks. He had a passion for firearms and the care he took of his personal shooting range, a hobby that brought him great joy and satisfaction. Tom cherished and valued the time spent with his children whether watching videos, trying cultural foods, exploring Trader Joes or just listening to their adventures. He is survived by a loving family, including his wife, Tammy; his children, Ryan (Sara) Paynter, Cory (Samantha) Funk, Dylan (Rachael) Paynter, and Cae Paynter; and his grandchildren, Devan, Keilea, Haylea, Chantel, Ethan, McKenzie, Dustin, and Alexandria. His siblings, Craig Paynter and Nancy (Ron) Olsen, along with his Aunt Marion Howard, many special brother in laws, sister in laws, nieces, nephews and cousins also survive him. His beloved dogs, Buddy and Belle will miss him. Tom was predeceased by his parents and his sister Sharon Cleaves. A visitation will be held Thursday, December 21, 2023 at the Erickson Funeral Home (508 Park Place, Darlington WI, 53530). The Erickson Funeral Home in Darlington, WI is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Tom's name.