Scott W. Tangerstrom, 69, passed away at Ascension – All Saints on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born in Racine on April 4, 1957 to the late Wilbur and Edna Mae (nee: LaFournier) Tangerstrom.

Scott graduated from Washington Park High School in 1975, marking the beginning of his journey toward a dedicated career in public service. Motivated by his ambition to become a firefighter, he continued his education at Gateway Technical College. In 1977, Scott embarked on his professional path in fire service at Great Lakes Naval Training Center. Over the years, his commitment and leadership were evident as he advanced through the ranks, ultimately retiring as Captain in 2006. As a lifelong fire buff, Scott devoted his volunteer time and energy to the Racine Fire Bells. He happily enjoyed over 50 years of membership in this organization, serving in many leadership roles, including president, and recently receiving the honor of president emeritus. He married the love of his life, Susan P. Smith, on October 23, 1982 at Epiphany Lutheran Church. With a profound Christian faith, Scott was a devoted lifelong member of Epiphany, now Water of Life Lutheran Church. His interests included model firetrucks and train cars, maintaining his antique fire trucks, pouring over fire apparatus photos and data – always trying to catalog the newest equipment while searching for whatever was out there on the old rigs, tireless supporter of the Racine Fire Bells, and was a “second dad” to many. Above all, Scott truly lived and breathed his family.

Scott leaves to cherish his memory, his pride and joy, his daughters Bethany Ann (Kevin) Heitman and Sarah Lynn (Dan Metzker) Tangerstrom; grand-puppies Captain and Dozer; sister-in-law Nancy Smith; niece Melissa Taggart; great-nieces Taylor (Jon) Baker and Meghann Taggart; great-great nephews Amos and Waylon Baker; great-great niece Raelynn Taggart; lifelong best friends and chosen brothers, Tom Gavahan and Jim Wampole; his wonderful caregivers Tracy Pirk and Toni Cannady, both of whom became family to him over the years; many other dear relatives, church family, and many, many friends too numerous to mention by name. In addition to his wife and parents, Scott was proceeded in death by his sister Julie Tangerstrom; his in-laws Paul and Nellie Smith; and his brother-in-law J. David Smtih.

Funeral services will be held at Water of Life Lutheran Church, 2921 Olive Street, on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at 10:30am with Rev. Nathan Klusmeyer officiating. Interment will follow in West Lawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be in Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Wednesday, September 16, 2026 from 5:00pm until 8:00pm and in the church on Thursday from 9:00am until the time of service. In memory of Scott, memorials to Racine Fire Bells, Water of Life Lutheran Church, or the family (for disbursement to Scott’s favorite charities) have been suggested.

A heartfelt note of thanks to both the Ascension All Saints ICU staff and C5 staff for the care given to Scott and his family during this difficult time.