Thomas C. Greiner (Bear), age 69, resident of both Wildlife Bar & Campground in Birnamwood, WI, & Superstition Lookout RV Resort of Apache Junction, AZ, passed away on November 30, 2024, in Arizona with Kizzy, his wife of 35 years at his side.
Bear was born on June 13, 1955, the son of Carl and Rose Mary (Bowers) Greiner. He attended Freedom High School prior to joining the family business of Greiner Trucking with his Dad and 2 brothers, hauling milk for his entire working career. He had a passion for riding motorcycles, taking many trips out West, as well as enjoying his weekly rides with the boys. Bear also had a love for golf and sitting around a campfire with cocktails.
Bear married Shirley Vande Hey (Kizzy) on July 14, 1989, along with her children Colleen (Mark) Hansen, Craig (Bonnie) Micke and Christa Zuleger (friend Mark Woelfel). Over the years the family grew with grandchildren and great-grandchildren including Abigail Hansen, Derek (Shannon) Hansen, Dillan (Kasey) Micke with great-grandsons Jax & Oliver Micke, Rachel Micke (fiancé Sawyer Rode), Ray Zuleger and Kelly Zuleger.
Bear is survived by his siblings, Ann (Terry) Kloehn, Lynn Greiner, Debbie Greiner, Tim (Ethel) Greiner, Mike (Shari) Greiner, Laurie (Jerry) Tank, Lisa (Greg) Manteuffel, and Kizzy’s siblings, Donna Weyers, Audrey (Jim) Temmer, Pete Vande Hey, Jan Van Rossum, Sharon (Carl) Theunis, Dick Vande Hey, Al Vande Hey, Debbie Van Handel (Joe), as well as many nieces and nephews.
We are so thankful for Hospice of the Valley – Arizona, who cared for Bear – they are the true angels. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your local hospice. The cremation will be held in Arizona, with Bear’s remains returning to Wisconsin at a later date.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Buzz’s Pub & Grill, W2116 County Road S, Freedom, WI, on Friday, December 6, 2024 from 9:30-11:30 am, with a Remembrance & Toast at 11:30 am, followed by a luncheon and beverages.