Thomas Lee Wardall

Thomas Lee Wardall, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2026, at the age of 83. Born on December 10, 1942 to Clarence and Ellen Wardall, in Merrill, Wisconsin. 

In 1962, Thomas married Betty Gryskiewicz, and together they built a life filled with adventure, laughter, and cherished memories. They enjoyed traveling, particularly to South Padre Island during the winter months, and shared a passion for camping and water skiing at Lake Tomahawk. An avid outdoorsman, Tom loved to hunt and shoot guns and spend time at their log cabin on their hunting land. 

Thomas served his country honorably in the U.S. Army from 1960 to 1966. After his service, he dedicated 40 years to Church Mutual, where he furthered his education by earning his CPCU certification and worked his way up to be an Assistant Vice President. Active in his community, he was a proud member of the Lion's Club, served on the Merrill Area Public Schools school board from 1982 to 1990, and was a member of the board for North Central Technical College from 1983 to 1992. He once held the position of president of the Kiwanis Club, reflecting his commitment to service and leadership. 

Thomas is survived by his devoted wife, Betty Wardall; his son, Alan (Marie) Wardall, and daughter-in-law, Janet Wardall; his grandchildren, Jared (Brianna) Wardall, Aubrey (Brent) Leech, Morgan Wardall, Aleysa Wardall, and Ryan (Elena McMenamin) Wardall; as well as great-grandchildren Wesley Thomas Wardall and Bennett Bradley Leech. He also leaves behind his brother, Gary (Peggy) Wardall, and numerous nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, his infant daughter Nicole Wardall, his son Lee Wardall, and his brother Harold Wardall. 

The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses and staff at Marshfield Medical Center in Weston and the hospice staff at Compassus for their compassionate care. 

Funeral services will be held Friday, June 19, 2026 at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation, 301 Eagle Dr, Merrill, Wisconsin, at 11am. Visitation will be from 9am-11am at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Thomas' name to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, the Wounded Warriors Project, or St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital.

Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation, Merrill, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinewaid.com