Thomas L. Ploetz, age 69, passed away at his home on Tuesday, January 20, 2015. He was born in Sheboygan on June 8, 1945, the first born son of Hubert Rutkowski and Janet Becker Walter. He was the adoptive son of James Ploetz and the step son of Cletus Walter. Tom attended Washington Grade School and graduated in 1964 from Sheboygan North High School. He received an Honorable Discharge from the U.S. Army. Tom was united in marriage to Nancy Dault Kaesermann in 1993. He was employed at Sadoff Iron & Metal Company in Sheboygan until his retirement in 2007. Tom is survived by his wife, Nancy; his step children, Lynn (Jeff) Noltner, Sheboygan, and Thomas (Lori) Kaesermann, Sheboygan; step grandchildren, Joshua (Lacey) Stirdivant, Sheboygan, Jacob (Megan) Noltner, Wauwatosa, Alyssa Noltner, TX, Jamie Noltner, MN, McKenzie Noltner, Stevens Point, Samantha Kaesermann, Howards Grove, Trey Mitchell, Mequon, Grady and Rylen Kaesermann, Sheboygan; three great grandchildren. He is further survived by his mother, Janet Walter; sisters, Kristine (Larry) Schneider, Sheboygan, and Debra (Charlie) Fenton, Saukville; brothers, Robert (Karen) Rutkowski, Shawano, and Kevin (Valerie ) Walter, La Crosse; two special aunts, Shirley and Quirine; many nieces and nephews. Tom was preceded in death by his fathers and his maternal and paternal grandparents. Tom's family greatly appreciated the wonderful care and compassion given to him by Dr. Bettag and staff, Dr. Grose and staff, and the "special" team of St. Nicholas hospice. A memorial service for Tom will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 24, 2015 at St. John's United Church of Christ, 13th & Lincoln Avenue. The Rev. Greg Whelton will officiate. Family and friends are welcome at the church on Saturday at the time of service. A luncheon will take place immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in his name. The Olson Funeral Home & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Tom's arrangements.
