Tammy Jo Jarecki, of Eau Claire, WI, was tragically killed by a speeding drunken driver when going to work on May 12, 2023.
Born to Joseph and Linda in Belvidere, Illinois on December 21, 1966, Tammy grew up on the shores of Lake Superior in Ashland, Wisconsin.
As a child she ran track, played softball, and enjoyed time with family. She was especially close to her grandparents. After graduating from Ashland High School, Tammy earned bachelor’s degrees in sociology from Northland College and social work from the University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire. Tammy read avidly, enjoyed music and local events like Bayfield Applefest and county fairs, and loved playing cards and board games. She delighted in gathering with friends and family to share a story, a laugh and a good cup (or three!) of coffee. She was a sentimental person, holding on to mementos to keep those she cared about close to her. Tammy took special joy in helping others, researching ideas and sharing her findings with others. She was always a hard worker. She explored a varied career, but found her true passion working in the healthcare and human service field. Tammy’s journey in this field began as a case manager and transport driver, progressing to onsite direct support where she provided care, counseling and resident activity coordination as well as case management. She was currently a caregiver in an adult family home which served the elderly and those with developmental and mental health challenges. She was well liked by her coworkers. Tammy found tremendous solace in her faith. She attended Bible studies at many local churches, especially Café 420, and enjoyed services at New Beginnings Church.
Tammy was preceded in death by grandparents, Joseph and Katherine Jarecki, Arthur and Irene Peterson; uncles, Roland and Norman Peterson.
Survivors include her father, Joseph “Joe” (Teresa) Jarecki; mother, Linda Ronning; aunt, Vicki Saric; sisters, Jennifer (née Zak) (Timothy) Farr, Angela (William “Tony”) Blackman, Heidi Jarecki (Robert Murphy); nephews & niece, Tristan and Lily Blackman, Finn and Leo Jarecki Murphy and many cousins.
A memorial service will be held at the Smith Funeral Chapel at 2222 London Road, Eau Claire, WI 54701 on Sunday June 4th, 2023. Visitation will be 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM followed by a Celebration of Life Service and a luncheon.
Tammy was taken from us way too soon and will be missed by her friends and family. May she rest in eternal peace.