Madison, WI - Thomas (Tom) John Geier, age 70, passed away peacefully on Thursday October 22, 2026, at home surrounded by loved ones. Born on November 6, 1955, to Al & Helen Geier in Madison, WI, he grew up in a bustling and loving household as the sixth of seven children. Tom married his high school sweetheart, Jill Valley on September 17, 1977. He made a career of mortgage lending and real estate development, leaving an impact on the landscape in Madison. He was a “wheeler and dealer” according to his father and had an amazing talent at putting together challenging deals. His career kept him busy, despite that, he prioritized his family and left an even bigger impact on the people in his life. 

For Tom, there was nothing more important than family and friends. He saw little value in possessions, but was a collector of people. He was an amazing father and grandfather to his two daughters, Tiffany and Lindsay, his sons-in-law, Jeff and Ben and his grandchildren Avi, Kaiya, Lainey, Sammy, Ruby & George. He was a master at making life magical for them and any of their friends who were lucky enough to tag along for the ride! He was a dedicated friend, maintaining many lifelong friendships and collecting a unique cast of characters throughout his life. 

Tom had amazing charisma and his spirit could capture a room when he walked in. He always had a witty joke, an enthralling story, and an expansive knowledge of all things. He shared his gifts willingly and even became known for his annual Christmas poems. He lived by the moral of one of his favorite movies, It’s a Wonderful Life; appreciate what you have and spread kindness wherever you go. 

He loved traveling and took countless trips over the years with Jill and their friends. He made more magic for his family by arranging an annual trip to Florida when his girls were young and then to Puerto Vallarta with his siblings, children and grandchildren later in life. His magic as “The Pop” was on full display on the beach or by the pool while there, making memories we will all cherish for a lifetime! He enjoyed cheering for Wisconsin sports, especially the Badgers, meeting for coffee and current events (i.e. gossip), playing cards with his friends, and sharing meals with the people he loved. He was always generous, not only financially, but with his time, his gifts and his laughter. 

As many know, Tom suffered from a stroke 6 years ago. He fought hard to regain his strength and independence. Despite his best efforts, he continued to require assistance in his daily life. We are eternally grateful to the amazing care team, friends and family members that helped to support his recovery and allowed him to stay at home during this time! His wife, Jill, was the foundation of this effort and the rock who held the team together. It was a tough time, but also created a deeper love and our lives are better for the additional memories we created during those years.

Tom is survived by his wife of 49 years, Jill; his daughters and sons-in-law Tiffany & Jeff Mack, and Lindsay & Ben Engelke; his grandchildren Avi, Kaiya, Lainey & Sammy Mack, and Ruby & George Engelke, his siblings Armella Geier, Tim (Jane) Geier, Dick (Sue) Geier, Don (Kathy Unger) Geier, Holley (Joe) Gugel, as well as many cousins, nieces & nephew and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Al & Helen Geier and his brother David Geier.

As was evidenced by his life, Tom valued people and experiences over material things and practiced the KISS lifestyle; Keep It Simple Stupid. So, in honor of Tom, please keep it simple. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you pay any kindness he shared with you forward. Celebrate him by doing something you used to do together. If you were in the lunch crew, keep having lunch! If you met for coffee or cards, keep drinking and playing! Share your favorite stories about Tom while you are together and help us keep his spirit alive. You can also consider making a donation to Agrace HospiceCare or Second Harvest.

Tom was known for hosting great parties and always being up for a good time! So, instead of a funeral, we are planning a great celebration! The date is yet to be determined, but know that he will be smiling down at us when we get together to laugh instead of cry. He was one of a kind and will be so missed!

Please share your memories of Tom by posting in his guestbook.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road Madison

(608) 238-3434