Thomas F. Teggatz

Thomas F. Teggatz, age 81, passed away on August 28, 2026, peacefully in his home, in Madison, Wisconsin. He was born on February 5, 1945, in Watertown, Wisconsin, to Charles and Marion (Thielke) Teggatz.

Tom was born legally blind and became completely blind in his early teens, but he refused to be defined by his disability. At a time when children who were blind were typically sent to institutional "blind schools," Tom graduated from Watertown High School, then went on to the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in 1969 and a Master of Social Work in 1972.

Tom built his career as a clinical social worker with the State of Wisconsin at the Mendota Mental Health Institute. He was a fierce advocate for people with disabilities, and when the state failed to provide him reasonable accommodation as a disabled employee, he sued. His case helped form part of the legal foundation for the Americans with Disabilities Act, signed into federal law in 1990.

Outside of work, Tom approached life with the same curiosity and tenacity that defined his career. He embraced new foods and new experiences with equal enthusiasm. His travels took him to Scotland where he cultivated a deep appreciation for Scotch. Tom was a voracious reader with a particular fondness for mystery novels. He had an ear for early classical music and opera, and he followed sports closely on the radio, with a particular love for college athletics. Tom never missed a chance for a good party and was always ready to celebrate a holiday, a grandchild's birthday, or a Packers or Bucks playoff game.

Tom is survived by his daughter, Liza (husband Cale; children Aldo, Cecilia, Greta, and Louisa); his son, Christopher (children Christopher and Tristan), daughter in law Vanessa, and his siblings, Charles, John, Nancy, Susan, and Patricia.

The family will hold a celebration of Tom's life on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at Ryan Funeral Home, 2418 N. Sherman Ave, Madison, WI 53704. Friends and family are welcome to arrive at 10:00 a.m. The remembrance ceremony begins at 11:00 a.m., with a reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The National Federation of the Blind.

To view his obituary and leave a memory, please visit:www.ryanunferalservice.com

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services
2418 N. Sherman Avenue
608-249-8257

Thomas Teggatz

February 05, 1945 - August 20, 2026

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