Thomas Kaiser

Thomas Henry Kaiser, affectionately known as “Papa,” passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the age of 89, surrounded by his family at St. Paul’s Senior Community in Belleville, Illinois.

Born December 18, 1936, in Belleville, Tom was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He shared 67 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Lorna J., née Nichols, Kaiser, whom he married on July 11, 1959. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and countless memories.

Tom retired from Oliver C. Joseph in Belleville after many years of dedicated service and proudly served his country in the United States Army. He was a faithful member of St. Matthew United Methodist Church and a proud member of the Masonic Lodge.

Known for his steady presence, Tom loved spending time working with his hands - whether woodworking in his shop or tinkering on projects around the house. He found joy on the water, boating, and making memories with family. Some of his happiest moments were simple: taking his grandchildren out for ice cream or sharing his favorite snacks - pretzels, black jelly beans, and circus peanuts.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rudolph A. and Gertrude M., née Thien, Kaiser; two brothers, Richard and Roger Kaiser; four sisters, Virginia (Sam) Sellers, Geraldine (Bud) Ross, Grace (Oliver D.) Joseph and Judith Quirk; and a grandson, Nathan Steding.

Tom leaves behind a legacy of love and family. He is survived by his wife, Lorna; children, Aissa (Hank) Norris, Lisa (Matthew) Meyer, and Jeffrey (Kathleen) Kaiser; grandchildren, Beau and Luke Hanger, Carly Hines, Kendal Steding, and Kamaren and Leighten Kaiser; great-grandchildren, Harrison, Jaxsen, and Camden; a brother-in-law, Michael Quirk; and many cherished nieces and nephews.

Tom will always be remembered as “Papa,” for his kindness, quiet strength, and the love he shared with his family. His warmth, humor, and gentle spirit will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Condolences may be expressed online at www.rennerfh.com.

Visitation: Friends may visit from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, Illinois.

Funeral: A memorial service will be held at 12 p.m. Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, Illinois, with Rev. Dr. Robert Swickard officiating.

Burial with military honors will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, Missouri.

Obit Provided By:
Renner Funeral Home