Thomas L. Bastian, age 80, of Whitelaw, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, September 14, 2026.

Tom was born on August 14, 1946, son of the late Lawrence & Myrtle Bastian. He was a graduate of Brillion High School, class of 1965. He served our country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Tom married Anita L. Shaw on September 9, 1995 at the Rural Methodist Church in Brillion. Tom worked at the Brillion Iron Works for most of his life. He also worked part time picking up the old milk cans by hand for Zippers Cheese Factory. He also plowed snow for customers. For a time, Tom and Anita moved out west and he owned and operated a Fish Farm in Oregon. Tom was a wrestler in high school, earning recognition and trips to state. He was a member of the American Legion Post 126 of Brillion, often helping with their events and service to the community. Tom was an animal lover, raising rabbits, crows, huskies, raccoons, chickens, and even peacocks! Tom was a quiet man, but he truly enjoyed spending time with his family.

Tom is survived by his wife, Anita of Whitelaw; his children: Thomas “TJ” (Kris) Bastian and Jeremy (Tyanne) Bastian of Brillion; grandchildren: Tristian (special friend, Paige Goodweiler) and Grace Bastian and Eva and Alexa Bastian; his sister: Kathy (Jim) Lane and brother: Mark (Lonie) Bastian; nieces, nephews, in-laws, other relatives, and friends.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Myrtle Bastian and two brothers: Dennis and Gerald “Jerry” Bastian.

A Memorial Service will take place at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 23, 2026 at the Pielhop Funeral Home in Brillion, 215 S. Main St. Officiating will be Rev. Joe Weiers. Military Honors will be accorded by the Becker, Bloedorn, Jensen Post 126 of Brillion. Burial will be at a later date in the National Bohemian Cemetery, town of Kossuth.

The family will greet relatives and friends at the Brillion Funeral Home from 3:00 p.m. until the time of the service.

Online condolences may be made www.pielhop.com

The family would like to thank the Kellnersville First Responders, the Manitowoc Fire and Paramedics, and the Manitowoc Sheriffs and Coroner’s Office for their care and compassion.

The family has chosen Pielhop Funeral Homes to honor Thomas’ Life Legacy.