Thomas B. “Tom” Bednarek, or “Blackie” as he was known to many, age 67 of Hudson, WI and formerly of Fond du Lac, WI, died suddenly and unexpectedly on Friday, November 12, 2010 in Hibbing, MN while deer hunting with his family and extended family. Tom was born on August 8, 1943 in Fond du Lac, WI to parents Edward S. and Irene D (Kleineider) Bednarek. Tom attended schools in Rosendale and N. Fond du Lac, and was a graduate of Horace Mann High School in North Fond du Lac, WI.  After high school, Tom served his country as a soldier in the U.S. Army. On October 9, 1969, Tom would be united in marriage to Elizabeth Jean Montgomery. Together Tom and Beth raised their two children, and enjoyed 41 years of marriage together.

Upon graduation from high school, Tom worked in road construction for JL Sullivan out of Wisconsin Rapids, WI. Tom was a railroad conductor for the Canadian Pacific Railway, and had worked in the past for its subsidiary, the Soo Line Railroad, for 40 years before enjoying retirement. Outside of work, Tom loved to spend time in the Great Outdoors, and could usually be found deer hunting, fishing, ice-fishing, or camping with his family and friends. Tom also played softball and horseshoes and enjoyed dart league.  Above all, Tom was most proud of his family. He treasured his kids and grandkids, and loved being “papa” and “grandpa” to them. He will be missed by his family, his fellow railroaders, and his friends.

Tom is survived by his wife of 41 years, Beth; daughter, Pam (Heath) Ehrnreiter; son, Chad Bednarek; grandkids, Tyler Lucas, and Hailey Ehrnreiter; great-grandson Ben Lucas Stoll; sister MaryAnn (Ron) Weyer; brother Joe (Ellen) Bednarek; sisters-in-law, Gloria Bednarek and Pat Bednarek. Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Ed and Irene; brothers, Dick Bednarek and Bob Bednarek; brothers-in-law, Bob Voskuil and William Montgomery; sister-in-law, Roxie Montgomery; and faithful canine companion, Tanya. 

Mass of Christian Burial for Tom Bednarek will be held at 12:00 NOON on Thursday, November 18, 2010 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Hudson, with father Dan Dahlberg officiating. Visitation will be held from 10:00AM until the start of the service. Services have been entrusted to the O’Connell Family Funeral Home of Hudson, WI. 715-386-3725