Obituary for Thomas E. Landers

Thomas “Grandpa Tom” E Landers, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2026, at the age of 85.

Tom was born on September 20, 1940, in Black River Falls, Wisconsin Ray and Bea Landers. He was a kind, gentle, and soft-spoken man whose warmth and love touched everyone fortunate enough to know him.

In 1958, Tom proudly began his service in the United States Air Force as an Air Policeman. He served until 1962 and spent one year and six months in foreign service. During his military career, he earned a Good Conduct Medal. His Air Force uniform was later donated to a local library, where it will remain on display as a lasting reminder of his service and dedication to his country.

One of the greatest chapters of Tom’s life began when he met Della while their families were camping together. It was there that they fell in love. On October 20, 1962, Tom and Della were married, beginning a beautiful 64-year journey together. Their marriage was a true example of love, devotion, partnership, and unwavering care for one another. Tom loved Della deeply and spent his life supporting and caring for her.

Together, Tom and Della shared a love of camping and traveling. They explored the world side by side, traveling to 47 states and creating countless memories along the way. Their adventures were a reflection of Tom’s curiosity, appreciation for life, and joy in experiencing the world with the woman he loved.

After his military service, Tom built a career as a quality control engineer. Outside of work and family, one of his greatest passions was model railroading. He immersed himself in the hobby, bringing the same patience, attention to detail, and enthusiasm to his miniature railroads that he brought to everything he cared about.

Above all else, Tom will be remembered for the person he was. He had a heart for everyone and seemed never to meet a person he couldn’t love. He was exceptionally kind, patient, and gentle, and his quiet presence brought comfort to those around him. He never needed to be the loudest person in the room to make an impact. His love was shown through the way he cared for others, especially his family.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Della Tetzlaff Landers; his sons, Tim Landers and his wife Joy and their daughter Hayley; and Todd Landers and his wife Kelly and their children Tristen, Olivia, and Devin and seven great-grandchildren.

His family will forever cherish the love, memories, stories, and example he leaves behind. He showed those around him what it meant to live with kindness, devotion, humility, and love. His legacy will continue through the generations of family who were blessed to call him husband, Dad, Grandpa, and Great-Grandpa.

Grandpa Tom was loved more than words can express and will be missed more than he could ever have known.

May he rest peacefully, surrounded forever by the love he gave so freely to others.

In accordance with Tom’s wish no service will be held at this time.