The Sun Prairie and Madison communities are mourning the sudden death of Thomas John “TJ” Kinney, a 21-year-old University of Wisconsin–La Crosse senior who was killed in a tragic accident on Nov. 25. Loved ones say the loss has left a deep void in the many spaces where TJ made an impact — his university, his church, his workplaces, and the wide circle of friends who treasured him.
Born in 2004 to Carla Holtan Kinney and Tom Kinney, TJ grew up in Madison and was known as someone whose life was shaped by faith, service, and integrity. Family and friends describe him as a young man with an “overflowing heart,” someone who naturally brought people together and uplifted everyone around him.
A Student, Mentor, and Community Builder
TJ began his education at Saint Maria Goretti before attending Edgewood High School. At the time of his passing, he was a senior at the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse, where he was studying finance and was set to graduate posthumously. University leaders said TJ embodied the values of the campus community through his generosity and inclusivity.
He was active in Delta Sigma Pi, serving on the fraternity’s social chair committee and taking part in a mentoring program aimed at guiding younger business students. He also worked part-time at First Community Credit Union and Texas Roadhouse — roles he balanced with academics, friendships, and volunteer work.
Friends say he was the kind of person who remembered small things about people, checked in when someone was struggling, and used humor to ease difficult moments. “Everyone has a story about how TJ made their life better,” one family friend shared.
A Life of Service — And a Final Act of Heroism
TJ’s commitment to helping others extended beyond volunteerism. He regularly donated blood and plasma, and in his passing, he became an organ and tissue donor — a decision expected to save more than 40 lives. His family called the gift “a miracle,” noting that TJ’s selflessness in death reflected how he lived every day.
Honoring a Beloved Son, Brother, and Friend
He is survived by his parents, Carla and Tom; sisters, Cora and Elle; his grandparents; and extended family. TJ was preceded in death by his brother Nathan, a loss that shaped the closeness of the Kinney family.
Visitation and funeral services will be held Dec. 11–12 in Madison, followed by a luncheon of remembrance.
In tribute to TJ’s legacy, the family is inviting donations to the UW–La Crosse College of Business Administration and Delta Sigma Pi — two communities he deeply cared for.
As Sun Prairie continues to grieve, those who knew TJ say they are choosing to honor him by carrying forward the compassion and kindness he showed so freely