Thomas James Pues, 66, of Navarino, passed away Sunday, June 21, 2026, after a short battle with cancer.
Born on Nov. 19, 1959, to James Harley Pues and Mildred “Midge” Edith (Schinke) Pues, Tom was the first of their children. Tom was born a hunter, making his debut during Wisconsin’s 1959 gun deer season.
Following his graduation from Shiocton High School in 1977, Tom joined the military. During his time in the service, he became the father of two daughters, Tabitha and Nicole. Although he never had the opportunity to build a relationship with them, he never forgot them.
After his military service, Tom worked as a union contractor in Connecticut, where he met his soulmate, Doreen Cowell, and her daughters, Amy Brown and Tonya Bratz. In 1988, Tom was ready to return to his home state of Wisconsin with the family he chose to raise as his own.
Tom continued working as a contractor and eventually owned his own business. He was a perfectionist, and every detail of his work reflected his dedication and skill. When he wasn’t working his magic with his craftsmanship, Tom loved hunting, fishing, gardening and just being outdoors. He spent many years enjoying family vacations at Rolling Stone Lake Resort, creating memories that remain cherished by those who shared them.
Tom lived a simple life and devoted himself to the land and wildlife he loved until the day he passed. In 2004, he fulfilled one of his greatest dreams by purchasing a portion of his grandfather’s land. His wish was to remain on that land and keep it in the family for generations to come.
Sadly, on April 9, 2026, Tom was diagnosed with an aggressive form of lung cancer. Tom was a man of strong beliefs — and a stubborn one at that (yes, he gave permission for that to be included). During this difficult time, Tom and his son-in-law, Steve Brown, developed an even stronger bond while caring for his property, wildlife and home. In the weeks before his passing, Tom and Steve remodeled his bathroom, cared for his pets and wildlife, and planted his garden together.
On June 9, the day after Tom finished planting his garden, Steve received a call that Tom needed help. Tom was never one to ask for assistance. From that day forward, his condition continued to decline. Despite the challenges, Tom was never alone and never gave up. His soulmate, Doreen, remained by his side every day and was with him as he took his final breath.
During this time, it became clear just how many lives Tom had touched. Friends from near and far came to visit, share stories and pay their respects. The family is deeply grateful for the love, prayers and support shown to Tom throughout his final weeks, helping him feel surrounded by those who cared for him.
Tom is survived by his soulmate, Doreen Cowell; daughters, Amy Brown (Steve Brown) and Tonya Bratz; grandchildren, Brianna (Wyatt), Haylie, Jacob, Dradyn and Bryson; his favorite rottie, Rugger; his parents, Mildred “Midge” Pues and James Pues; and his siblings, Shirley (Joe) Pues, Rick (Ben) Pues, Jeanne (Ed) Conlon, Judy Welch, Kim Dennis, Tanya Hauser, Laura (Brian) Reinert, Mary (Eric) Kind, Janilee (Sonya) Parks and Christina (Danny) Ortega. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles.
Tom was preceded in death by his grandparents; his second mother, Bonnie Pues; his brother, Joe Pues; his nephew, Brandon Dennis; and many beloved aunts, uncles and cousins.
Tom requested a simple celebration of life. The family is planning a gathering to honor and celebrate Tom’s life at his favorite place for a fish fry: Hooker’s Bar and Grill, W7615 County Road F, Shiocton, WI 54170, Sunday, July 12, starting at 11 a.m. All are welcome to come and reminisce. The family will provide food, but we ask everyone to support the bar and buy drinks.
