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Brookfield Central High School

Brookfield, Wisconsin

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Thomas Pinkl Obituary

Graduation Year Class of 1970
Date of Passing Feb 24, 2026
About I am saddened to share with you that our high school classmate, and my best buddy at BCHS, Tom Pinkl, passed away on February 24 at the age of 73 following a struggle with heart-related issues.

Tom was a member of the BCHS Class of 1970, and will be remembered as an outstanding athlete on our football, basketball, track and baseball teams. Many of us will also remember him for his great sense of humor, his easy laugh and his love of music and dancing (back then, it was Soul).

Following graduation, Tom attended the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. He served during the Vietnam War and retired from the Navy after 20 years and 1 day of service at the rank of Commander. He developed a passion for Asian and African art, maintaining several ethnographic art galleries in Wisconsin and Illinois for over 30 years. He is survived by his wife Reiko, their two sons, Joey and Jimmy, both who earned PhD's in STEM-related fields and are accomplished musicians, and his sister Shelly Hecht (BCHS Class of '69).

We extend our condolences to his family and loved ones. If anyone would like to share a memory or tribute, please feel free to do so here.
Thomas Pinkl