Thomas “Tom” Baer

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved, Thomas “Tom” Robert Baer, who went home to Heaven on January 22, 2025. 

Tom was born on August 3, 1953 in Milwaukee, to Robert E. Baer and Elaine M. Baer (Einem) where he was the second oldest of five children. Tom graduated from the University of Wisconsin, Stout in 1976. It was during college that he met his wife, Michele, and they married in 1977.

Tom worked in both Janesville and Madison before starting Newco Engineering in 1982. After becoming a parent, Tom designed wooden playground equipment with a plastic slide which he patented in 1990. Tom sold his playground business Swing-N-Slide in 1992.

In 1999, Tom created United Alloy, Inc. This business now has locations in Wisconsin, Illinois, Texas, and Ohio. Tom’s oldest daughter, Vanessa, was announced as CEO of United Alloy, Inc in January of 2024.

In addition to the long list of Tom’s professional accomplishments, his most cherished and favorite titles were husband, father, and grandfather. Tom was a devoted husband who shared countless adventures with Michele including travel, woodworking, boating and anything that had a motor. Because Tom was only 40 when he first retired, he was an incredibly involved father no matter how great or small the project may have been. To his grandchildren, he was “Backa.” They adored him and believed that he could accomplish anything they wished for. Many of Tom’s friends said he was their mentor or confidant. Some referred to him as a genius because of his creative abilities. Tom had the unique ability to turn every conversation into something enriching and memorable. Tom had a thirst for knowledge and a love of history. 

Tom is preceded in death by his father, Robert “Bob” and his mother, Elaine. He is survived by his wife Michele (Pfaffle) Baer, and their children Vanessa (Danny) Dubick, Mara Baer, and Eric Baer; and his five grandchildren, Tommy, Manuel, Roger, Mateo, and Madison; siblings Jim (Cynthia) Baer, Bill (Sharon) Baer, Ellen (Pete) Kursel, and Karen (Dan) Cody; and step-siblings Rob (Diane) Tegtmeier and Trisha (Dave) Johnson; and aunt Shirley (Richard) Behrendt.  

Tom had a great love for history and spending time in his favorite place, Manitowish Waters. In lieu of flowers a donation may be made in his honor to the Manitowish Waters Historical Society. Donations can be sent to: 

Manitowish Waters Historical Society, P.O. Box 100, Manitowish Waters, WI 54545.