Thomas M. Plakut

Thomas Michael Plakut, 71, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2023, after living with Parkinson’s disease for 25+ years. The oldest of three, Tom was born August 26, 1951 to Michael and Ruth (Kaiser) Plakut.

Tom attended St. Francis De Sales High School, College and Major Seminary. He completed a Master of Theological Studies with a concentration in Justice and Peace at Maryknoll School of Theology. In 1980 he joined the St. Benedict Community Meal Program staff. After 25 years, Parkinson’s contributed to his early retirement from his position as director of the Meal Program.

Tom’s receipt of the 2006 Vatican II Service Award recognized his passion for peace and justice. Tom spoke to the importance of providing an atmosphere of hospitality and mutual respect at the Meal Program, raising consciousness of the root causes of poverty and linking prayer with service, developing an integral spirituality of faith and action. He was inspired by the lives of the Meal participants, recognizing each individual’s dignity and gifts.

Tom was a loyal friend, was generous, humble, and dedicated to his passion for peace and justice. Sharp in intellect and strong in convictions, he invited others to grow into a deeper understanding of the Gospel call. His accumulated “Library” of books and periodicals on a vast array of topics is testament to Tom as an avid reader. He valued delving into exploring life’s meaning, its struggles and the search for growth in persons, societies and between humanity and God. He cultivated critical thinking in his children and in those around him - challenging everyone to consider various perspectives.

In his youth, Tom pitched for his Champion Little League Baseball Team. He loved competitive handball and ping pong matches, while enjoying spectating baseball, soccer, and tennis. He was a wizard with baseball stats! Aside from sports, Tom loved playing pinochle and sheepshead on a weekly basis, while also mentoring many young card players. He also loved watching Twilight Zone and The Three Stooges, while discussing classic movies and film directors.

Devoted to family, Tom is survived by his wife Colleen (O’Connell), children: Paul, Rachel (David), Joel (Lucia); grandchildren: Emma, Michael and Augusten. He is further survived by siblings MaryBeth (Gene) Delzer and Patricia (Jay) Nowak; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. Tom is reunited with his parents and other loved ones who predeceased him.

The family extends thanks to the staff at Tudor Oaks and Brighton Hospice for their kind and compassionate care.

Visitation will be held at Max A. Sass - Greenridge: 4747 S. 60th St. Greenfield, WI 53220 from 4:00 - 7:00 PM on Friday, 6/23. Continuation of visitation to follow on Saturday 6/24 from 9:00 AM until time of mass of Christian burial at 11:00 AM located at St. Catherine Catholic Church at 5101 W. Center St. Milwaukee, WI 53210.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Capuchin Community Services or Wisconsin Parkinson Association.