Linda Lee Thomas

Linda Lee Mucha Thomas (nee DeBaker), aged 75, a beacon of love and joy, passed away peacefully on December 6, 2023, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Born on February 21, 1948, in Wisconsin, Linda's life was a testament to her unwavering faith, the importance of family, and the joy she found in life's simple pleasures.

Linda graduated from Bay View High School in the class of 1966, where she formed friendships and memories that lasted a lifetime. Her career was marked by a long and fulfilling tenure at Gareth Stevens Publishing, where she excelled as a telemarketing supervisor. Linda's work brought her much joy, not only because she was part of a team that published children's books but also because it allowed her to shower her beloved grandsons with endless stories that fueled their imaginations.

On July 8, 1967, Linda married her first love, Ronald John Mucha, with whom she shared a beautiful life until his untimely passing on March 8, 1990. Her heart found love again, and she married Daniel Thomas on November 30, 1999. Together, they shared a life filled with laughter, support, and companionship.

Linda's legacy is carried on by her devoted daughter, Michelle Lee "Shelly" (Peter Jason) Tagtow, and her cherished grandsons, Ronald Michael Tagtow and Benjamin Royce Tagtow. Her love for her family was boundless, and she took immense pride in their achievements and happiness. Linda's sister, Ginger Helen Wollert (nee DeBaker), remains a testament to their shared memories and the close-knit family bond they enjoyed.

She was preceded in death by her loving parents, Francis Bernard "Buck" DeBaker and Beverly Bernice "Bev" DeBaker (nee Hazelburg), and her brothers, Donald Mark DeBaker and Gustave Karl DeBaker Sr. Linda's family was the cornerstone of her life, and she now joins those who have passed before her in eternal peace.

Linda's interests and hobbies were a reflection of her zest for life and her love for the world around her. A devout believer, she found comfort and guidance in reading her Bible. Her garden was a place of tranquility and beauty, where she spent countless hours nurturing her plants and flowers. Thrifting was not just a pastime for Linda but an adventure, as she delighted in discovering hidden treasures. An avid reader, she always had a book at hand, often delving into books that both entertained and inspired her.

Music, particularly jazz, held a special place in Linda's heart. The sound of her grandson playing the saxophone and piano was music to her ears, and she was his most enthusiastic audience. Her love for her four-legged friends was yet another facet of her compassionate spirit.

Linda's life was a beautiful melody of devotion to God, love for her family, and a passion for life's simple joys. Her warm smile, generous heart, and unwavering kindness will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her spirit, a gentle and nurturing force, will continue to live on in the memories of her loved ones and the many lives she touched.

As we bid farewell to Linda Lee Mucha Thomas, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a soul that has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on this world. Her journey on earth may have concluded, but her story—a narrative of love, faith, and joy—will be recounted for generations to come.

Family and friends are welcome to gather on Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at the Max Sass Funeral Home from 4 -7 PM. A service to celebrate her life will be held at 6:30 PM.