Thomas Leonard Wichmann

Thomas Leonard Wichmann, 75, of Ririe, Idaho passed away Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at the Sage Grove Assisted Living in Rigby, Idaho. He was born on May 17, 1949, in Denver, Colorado, the son of Leonard Oscar Wichmann and Elizabeth Florence Lucas Wichmann. He was lucky enough to be a twin with his sister Barbara.

Thomas attended Golden High School in Golden Colorado, graduating in 1967. As soon as he and Barbara turned 16, they worked at the local A&W restaurant. She was a car hop, and he worked in the kitchen. After high school Thomas attended the Colorado School of Mines for a time and then received a draft from the United States Government to serve in the Military during the Vietnam War. His father took him to the local Navy Recruiter and signed him up. He served in the United States Navy as a Machinist’s Mate on a submarine for 20 years. He was deployed to many areas in his time of service. On retirement from the Navy, he moved to Ririe, Idaho and worked for the Department of Energy as a Director of Operational Safety Division. He retired from the DOE after 20 years of service. Thomas made significant and lasting impacts to the federal government during his 40-year tenure.

On October 11, 1975, Thomas married Leah Ann Burt in Rigby, Idaho. After many years of marriage, they divorced. He was a member of the Lutheran Church. He played piano, loved to read and travel. Thomas was of extremely high intelligence. He was recognized and described as brilliant, intuitive, and capable of grasping complex concepts with exceptional clarity.

Thomas is survived by his daughters; Gretl, Karen, and Kim Wichmann of Idaho Falls. Son’s, Andrew (Alicia) Wichmann of Maryville, TN, and Marc (Chelsie) Wichmann of Iona, ID. A sister, Barbara (Bob) Shick of Derby, Kansas, eight grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

Thomas was preceded in death by his parents.

A memorial celebration will be held Friday, May 16, 2025 at 3:00 PM at Eckersell Funeral Home (101 West Main Street, Rigby, ID  83442).