Thomas (Tom) Bryan Muckler, 70, passed away unexpectedly on August 28, 2025 in Mazomanie, WI.

Tom was born on September 19, 1954 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Carl Muckler, Jr. and Barbara Flinn Muckler. Affectionately known by his large group of friends as “Tommy” and “Muck”, he grew up on the Westside of Madison and attended Randall School and West High School in Madison. He later completed a degree at Madison Area Technical College. Tom worked as a manager at Master Graphics and in his retirement ran a small painting and landscaping business.

Tom was an avid world traveler, nature lover and a truly gentle, caring soul who brought joy to everyone in his orbit. He spent part of each year in Costa Rica in his second home in the jungle. He loved to watch birds, and to care for his healthy and ever-growing gardens, trees and plants. His stunning photographs of the natural world captured and shared the beauty he saw through his unique perspective. His photography can be seen here: Tom Muckler Two Worlds Photography

Tom was a caring and devoted partner to the love of his life, Ava, and a wonderful step-father to her children and grandfather to their grandson. He was a loyal and beloved brother to his four siblings and a cherished uncle to a large and growing group of nieces, nephews and their children.

Tom is survived by siblings, Anne Cameron, Marylis Hansen, John Muckler (Jennifer), and Mark Hinkston as well as his life partner of thirty years, Ava Olsen, her children and grandson.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Carl Muckler, Jr. and Barbara Flinn Muckler; his brother-in-law, Erle Hansen; and his niece, Melody Ren Barbara. He is also preceded in death by his two beloved dogs, Suerte and Larry.

Tom was cremated on Monday, September 8, 2025. His remains will be held by the family and ultimately put to rest with his life partner. Since Tom dearly loved and was loved in both of his two worlds (Wisconsin and Costa Rica), the family is currently making plans for two celebrations of life, one in Madison, WI and one in Costa Rica. These celebrations will be held in 2026. Details about the celebrations will be shared as soon as they are available. To honor Tom, please consider donating to one of the following organizations in lieu of flowers:

Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary or International Crane Foundation.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road Madison

(608) 238-3434