Racine- Thomas Robert Ultsch, 69, beloved husband of Betty (nee: Ryan) Ultsch, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, December 18, 2011.

Tom was born in Racine on December 11, 1942 to the late Norman and Bessie (nee: Pinney) Ultsch. A graduate of William Horlick High School, he went on to earn his Business Administration degree from Cardinal Stritch University. From 1964 to 1968 (stationed in Turkey and Japan), Tom faithfully served our Country in the Special Forces of the United States Air Force.

On March 18, 1978 he was united in marriage with the love of his life, Betty Diane (nee: Ryan) Ultsch. Tom served our community with the Racine County Sheriff's Department for over 26 years, retiring as a Captain in 1995. He was an active member of Kiwanis – West Racine and the Racine County Sheriff's Retirees. Among his interests, Tom was extremely talented with home improvements; enjoyed golfing, bowling and softball; and absolutely loved being a grandfather. Tom was generous throughout his entire life, including in death.  Through the gift of organ and tissue donation, Tom will enhance the quality of life for nearly 65 needing individuals.

Surviving are his devoted wife, Betty of Racine; children, Greg (Valeria) Kopulos and Stephanie (Chad) Schultz, both of Delafield; grandchildren, Ryan, Tate and Reese Kopulos; J.T. and Alexandra Schultz; brother, Terry Ultsch; sisters, Bev (Gilbert) Mann and Deb (Rod) Lashley; sister-in-law, Verna (Herbert) Jensen; dear friends, William and Pattie Becker and Betty Lock; personal caregiver (as Tom suffered a debilitating stroke in 2005), Andi Demeti; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Bessie Ultsch; and by Betty's parents, Marlowe and Lucille Ryan.

Funeral services will be held in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Thursday, December 22, 2011 at 6:00 pm with Rev. Marty Williams officiating. Military honors will follow. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Thursday from 3-6 pm. In memory of Tom, memorials to the Children's Hospital of Wisconsin or "Make-A-Wish" Foundation have been suggested.