Thomas “Tom” Raymond LaBarge

Thomas “Tom” Raymond LaBarge, 74, Holcombe, died Saturday, March 9, 2024, at Mayo Clinic in Eau Claire, surrounded by his loving family.

Tom was born March 12, 1949, in Marshfield, to Raymond J. LaBarge and Delores (Rogstad) LaBarge.

He graduated from oneroom Taft Grade School in 1963, Loyal High School in 1967, and from the University of Wisconsin Whitewater, with his master’s in accountancy in 1972.

Tom married Diane Smart in 1969, and worked at the Jamesway Foundry in Fort Atkinson, throughout his college career. Upon graduation, he worked at Wipfli, Ulrich, & Co., a public accounting firm in Wausau, until 1975.

He then joined Tombstone Corporation as their chief financial officer; Tom sat on their board of directors and held the position of director of finance, until he left in 1988. He then went on to own and operate Enerquip Inc. in Medford, as its president.

Tom sold Enerquip in 1991, to pursue his dream of traveling the world while hunting, fishing and golfing. His adventures took him on three African safaris, Alaska, Mexico, Siberia, New Zealand, China, Russia, throughout Europe, and an Arctic polar bear hunt.

He cherished spending time with all walks of life, from taking his children across the United States, during their high school years, to attempting to understand the way of life deep in the Guyana rainforest. In a word, Tom was curious and his inquisitiveness, humility and keen intellect, drove all his pursuits.

His passion and quirkiness shone through his stunning smile daily. He took great pride in his community in Holcombe, and served it well, with his wealth of knowledge and storytelling skills.

Tom loved so deeply for his family, friends and coworkers. He adored the outdoors, politics, Jack Daniels and finding the solution. Whatever he did, he was all in!

He is survived by his two daughters – Tina LaBarge and Shelby (Jason) Billeb; his six grandchildren – Hanna (Jake) Wicks, Caleb Dietzman, Ashton Billeb, Max Dietzman, Ren Billeb and Lawton Billeb; great-grandson – Rukh; brothers and sisters – Gerald, Tim, Dave, Bruce, Jackie, Patti, Kathy and Lisa; and best friend – Bonnie Wilder.

He was preceded in death by his wife – Diane LaBarge, in 2019; his mother – Delores LaBarge, in 2016, his sister – Peggy Dahlby, in 1997; and his father – Raymond LaBarge, in 1995.

A celebration of life will be held at Ted’s Timber Lodge and Resort, at 1 p.m., Sunday, March 24. Tom often expressed that the passing of a loved one is a time to honor the Lord and the deceased’s journey to a more joyful place. There is no environment he’d rather we discuss and celebrate his earthly presence.

Cremation Society of Wisconsin in Altoona is assisting the family.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.cremationsociety-wi.com.