MINOCQUA, Wis. - Thomas Joseph Ridgen, 68, of Minocqua, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024, at the Aspirus Ironwood Hospital, in Ironwood, Michigan.

Tom was born on July 23, 1955, a son of Thomas and Darlene (Welch) Rigden. He grew up in Berkeley, Illinois.

He proudly served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps. Following his honorable discharge, Tom attended the Northern Illinois University and graduated with a public law degree in 1984, where he passionately played on the Lacrosse team.

Tom started working for the film industry as a studio mechanic and was a supporting member of Union Local 476 in Chicago for 35 years. His talents and interest didn't end there as he had a passion for conservation, reading, hockey, the great outdoors and recreational sports.

Tom is survived by his siblings, John Rigden and Patricia (Joe) Castellano; a niece, Leah Castellano; and many dear cousins.

He is preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Colette Ridgen.

A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, April 12, from 4 to 8 p.m., at the Pedersen-Ryberg Funeral Home, 435 N. York Road, Elmhurst, Illinois 60126 (telephone number: 630-834-1133).

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, April 13, at 10 a.m., at St. Domitilla Catholic Church, 4940 Washington Street, Hillside, Illinois 60162 (telephone number: 708-449-8430).

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel, Inc., in Wakefield, Michigan, is assisting the family with arrangements. To send online condolences or to share a memory, please go to lakesidememorialchapel.com.