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Thomas Paul Stumpf, 81, of River Falls, WI, passed away on July 4th, 2026.
Born on January 1st, 1945 in Menominee, Michigan to George and Evelyn Stumpf, Tom grew up in Menominee and later graduated from University of Wisconsin-Madison. He went on to teach economics, psychology, and driver’s education at River Falls High School for over 30 years, also serving as a coach for multiple sports. On August 25th, 1984, Tom married his wife, Chris, and together they blended their families to reside in River Falls as a family of six.
Tom was known for his love of sports, avidly cheering on the Packers and Badgers at any opportunity, as well as attending his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events and watching endless hours of sports from his recliner. He was an avid skier, teaching skiing at Afton Alps for many years, and also enjoyed playing chess, golfing, collecting trains, and playing Sheepshead with friends. Tom liked spending time with his family and having others over to enjoy the pool. He also had a passion for lawn care, often having the best kept lawn on the block.
Tom is survived by his wife of 42 years, Chris; children: Tricia (Joan) Wilder, Paul (Angela) Stumpf, Dawn (Brent) Allen, and Jenni (JR) Ballard; grandchildren: Alex (Mike) Nilssen, Meaghan (Brendan) McMahon, Bethany (Cody) Allen, CJ Wilder, Lily Ballard, and Jacob Ballard; great grandchild: Callum Nilssen; siblings: Carole Bluem and Mike (Julie) Stumpf; and many important friends and community members.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Sally Kingston, his brother, George Stumpf, his brother, John Stumpf, his grandson, Nickolas Borchardt, and great-granddaughter, Elliot Nilssen.
A visitation will be held on Sunday, July 19th, 2026, from 1:00-3:00pm at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services, 805 E Division St, River Falls, WI 54022. A memorial service will take place at 3:00pm, with light refreshments following the service. The family requests that any donations in Tom’s honor be made to River Falls Community Food Pantry.
9 Comments
So sorry for the family’s loss. My all-time favorite teacher and coach. I was so glad I got to connect with him again at my mom’s funeral in 2019.
Coach Stumpf was great track coach and teacher. Our track team went to the state meet in 1976. He helped me to be a better runner and hurdler. Our team placed 5th in the team standings. I also had him in economics class. Really a nice man and a fun coach. He will be missed!
Chris and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Mr. Stumpf was an amazing teacher. His Economics class in high school is a large part of why I majored in Economics. Sending prayers of peace and comfort to each of you.
Sorry for your loss. Great guy, prayers for you all. He will be missed greatly
I enjoyed talking to Tom when our paths crossed in the school district. He was a kind, patient man who had time for everyone.
He played a big part in my life when I was a young, ignorant teenager back in the late 70s-early 80s. Mr Stumpf was my driver’s ed instructor, economics teacher, cross country, and track coach. I remember him as being kind hearted, compassionate, knowledgeable, and patient. Class of 82.
Please let express my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Thomas P. Stumpf. Mr. Stumpf was my Economics teacher and Track coach and I’ll always remember and appreciate the time he spent trying to help this not-overly-gifted athlete to improve. Over the years since then, he has been an example for me in how I approach the students I have had over my teaching career. He was a class act.
Corey Ye, RFHS Class of 1982
Very sorry to hear. He taught me how to drive in 1976! Thoughts of comfort to the family.
Tom was a colleague for years and recently a neighbor I always enjoyed talking to him
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