Thomas "Tom" J. Baures

Thomas “Tom” J. Baures, 77, of Bluff Siding, WI, died peacefully on Monday, November 24, 2025, at home on his family farm.

Tom was born on January 6, 1948, in Winona, MN to Millard and Mayme “Monica” (Przybylski) Baures. He graduated from Cochrane-Fountain City High School in 1966.

Tom worked at the Winona Knitting Mills while in high school, which is where he met Lorraine Brueggeman. They were married on August 20, 1966, and welcomed 3 children. Tom worked at Federal Bakery, then as a welder at Warner-Swasey/Badger Equipment. In 1973, he achieved his dream of running his own business, Tom Baures Excavating, which is still run by his family.

He enjoyed many hobbies in his earlier years such as restoring and painting cars, deer hunting, building and renovating equipment, hosting the annual 4th of July Chicken Q and enjoying time with family. In later years, he enjoyed car rides, riding with Bob in the truck, family holidays and watching his favorite TV shows (which you could not interrupt!).

Tom will be remembered for his kindness, his hearty laugh and the joy he shared so freely with others. His generous spirit and genuine compassion touched countless lives, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Tom was a member of the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka of Winona. He is survived by his loving wife, Lorraine; his children: Ronald (Kerrie), Robert (Kristy) and Julie (Mike) Hoffman. He adored his beautiful granddaughters: Bekka, Taylor, Natalie and Ashley. He is also survived by Lorraine’s brothers: Lloyd (Carol), Marvin (Sue), Jim and Paul; as well as many cherished nieces and nephews who held a special place in his heart.

He was preceded in death by his precious granddaughter, Brooke; his parents, Millard and Monica; his sisters and brothers-in-law: Virginia (Raymond) Cyert and Joan (Wayne) Puetz; his brother, Gerald (Jerry) Baures; as well as his nephews: James and Robert Cyert, and Thomas Puetz.

Tom suffered a stroke in May of 1996 and had many wonderful caregivers over the years. Our family would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all of them for their excellent and compassionate care, which allowed Tom to remain at home.

Visitation will be held at the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka in Winona on Friday, December 5, 2025, from 9 AM until the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 AM. The Very Reverend Patrick Arens will officiate.  Following the Mass, a luncheon will be held in the church hall.

Interment will be held privately for his family at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Winona at a later date.

Online condolences or memories may be left for Tom’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.