Thomas James Wiese: A Man of Heart, Wit, and Wisdom
Thomas James Wiese, 78, of Overland Park, Kansas, passed away peacefully at his home on February 24, 2025. The middle of three boys, Tom was born on December 8, 1946, to Henry and Virginia Wiese. He grew up on the West Side of Kansas City, Missouri, where he was known to raise a little ruckus.
After graduating from De La Salle High School, Tom worked for the phone company and served in the Army National Guard for six years. Tom met his wife, Linda, on a blind date. It was not love at first sight, but after a second date their romance flourished. They were married in 1967 and made their home in Kansas City, Kansas where they raised two children.
Tom was a lifelong learner, balancing work and family while earning a Business Degree from Park University in 1987. In 1990, he had the special honor of graduating with his son from Baker University; Tom earning his MBA and his son receiving his bachelor’s degree.
He was committed, loyal, honest and friendly as reflected in his 39-year career at U.S. Engineering, lifelong friendships and 57-year marriage to his beloved wife. Tom was an avid runner and in later years a long-distance walker. Many Saturday mornings you could find him at the local QT picking up cappuccinos for his wife and daughter before heading to his weekly fellowship meetings. He enjoyed cooking, fishing, traveling with friends and family and playing his guitar. He treasured the semi-annual fishing trips with family, creating memories that would last a lifetime. Nothing brought him more happiness than gatherings with his extended family and friends. He had the ability to anticipate needs and offer wise counsel, earning the respect and admiration of his family, friends and colleagues.
Tom was known for his loving heart, his quick wit, and his almost omniscient knowledge. He was a loving and caring father who was deeply involved with his family. Always present to support and encourage his family, he coached his children in various sports and activities and carried that same dedication into his role as a grandfather. Tom leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and wisdom. He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife Linda (Alexander); his children, Tom (Kate)Wiese and Beth Wiese Pisterzi; grandchildren Emily, Nicole, Matthew, Gabrielle, Brennan and Dominic; great granddaughter Noa; brother Bob (Mary) and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother John.
A memorial service to celebrate Tom’s life will be held on March 14, 2025, at 11am, with visitation beginning at 9:30am at Cure of Ars Catholic Church in Leawood, Kansas. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Tom’s memory to the Epilepsy Foundation, KU Cancer Endowment - Mesothelioma, or your charity of choice.