Clifford Thomas Gomer

Clifford Thomas Gomer

It is with deep sadness that the family of Clifford Thomas Gomer, 90, announces his unexpected passing at his home in Black River Falls July 27, 2026.

“Tom” was born Oct. 20, 1935, in Shamrock, Wisconsin to Clifford James (Gib) Gomer and Doris Mae Millis Gomer and graduated from Black River Falls High School in 1955. He married Darlene Ann Young (who caught his eye on a dance floor in Cataract, WI) July 7, 1956, and together they welcomed and raised four children.

Tom was a proud veteran, having served as an active U.S. Army National Guard member in his early married life. He was an exceptionally hard worker throughout his life and was employed over the years as a Caterpillar driver, a fuel distributor and school bus driver. He ultimately owned and maintained a septic pumping business before retiring.

His beloved wife, Darlene, preceded him in death in 2019, and his younger sisters Sally (Louis) Shaw and Peggy Gomer also preceded him in death.

Tom is survived by his four children and their spouses, Vicky (Victoria) Lynn (Steven) Taillon, Frankie (Francene) Ann (Eric) Weinberger, Clifford Thomas Junior (Barbara Joseph) Gomer and Tina Mae (Donald) Iverson; his siblings and their spouses, Jeane (John) Smith, Bonnie Gomer, Howard (Kristie) Gomer and Mary (Geno) Valentino; his brother-in-law, Louis Shaw; three granddaughters; three grandsons; six great-grandsons; and three great-granddaughters.

Tom was a self-taught carpenter and expert repairman, taking great pride in the renovation, beatification, and upkeep of the many homes in which he and Darlene lived in this area during the years, and could fix almost anything.

He had a deep love and respect for animal, and cherished moments spent in the presence of his own and visiting family pets. Tom was particularly fond of feeding birds and squirrels in his neighborhood (they may have come from all over town!) and took comfort in providing them with heated water during our harsh winter months. He found great joy in watching them from his front window, especially in his later years when he had time to marvel at their wonder and comment on their antics. He often shared heartfelt memories of his last beloved companions, Kitty Girl and Teddy (dog), who both sadly died in recent years. After they were gone, he would greet them many times each day as he passed by their paintings hanging in his home.

Although Tom had increasing difficulties with mobility during the last years of his life, his indomitable spirit and will to live (along with selfless and loving help from Tina, his youngest daughter, who drove from her home or stopped from her workplace daily, regardless of weather conditions), carried him beyond his physical limitations and allowed him to remain in his home until the end. He was an inspiration to his family for his strength and hard work and will be remembered for his positive attitude toward lifeHe was deeply loved and cherished by his family and friends, and he will be greatly missed.

Tom was a private person, and his wishes included holding a simple and private family gathering of his children in his memory.

The Torkelson Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.