Thomas Allen Steinke

Thomas Allen Steinke "Turtle" was called up to the Lord on Tuesday September 10 in Appleton at 72 years of age. 

Thomas Allen “Turtle” Steinke lived in Pella. Tom was born on July 21, 1952 in Shawano WI to Allen “Swampy” Steinke and Mary Ann (Schmidt) Steinke. 

Tom attended Leopolis Grade School and graduated from Marion High School Class of 1970. Shortly after school he was drafted to the Army and served in the National Guard for 9 years. The true love of his life was being a milk hauler. Tom drove semi over the road for many years, and always worked part-time as a milk hauler; until his dream job came true on April 1st, 1995, owning and hauling milk on his dad’s original milk route until 2013 when he retired. 

Tom served as a past Town of Pella Supervisor, organized and served for many years Secretary/Treasurer Bethlehem Cemetery Association Inc... He also joined the Caroline Lions and for many years volunteered at the Caroline Colorama Dances. 

Tom is survived by his wife Lynn Tober-Steinke, sons Steven Tober Steinke, Allyn Tober Steinke. 

Siblings: Susan Radtke, Mike Steinke Sr., Kathryn Steinke and many nieces and nephews. 

Tom is preceded in death by his parents Allen “Swampy” and Mary Steinke, sister Sally and brother-in-law Gordon Schwersenska, infant sister Sandy. 

Visitation and Fellowship will be held before the service on Friday September 27, 2024 starting at 3 p.m. until the time of service at 7 p.m. at Bethlehem Lutheran Church of Pella with Pastor Tim Lofgren officiating. Burial will be at Bethlehem Cemetery after the service. 

(Lynn and the boys are requesting a memorial “Turtle” in “In lieu of flowers”) 

Very special Thank you to Pella EMS and to the staff at Peabody Manor Pine Creek Appleton for their care and kindness. It will never be forgotten. Heart of the Valley Cremation is assisting the family.