Thomas Lisle Schechter

1933 - 2011

Tom Schechter passed away peacefully in his sleep February 10, 2011 at the age of 77.

Tom was born in Kansas City, Missouri on March 31, 1933 to Margaret and Morris Schechter. In 1934 his parents moved to California and Tom had his entire schooling in Los Angeles attending Hancock Park Grammar School, John Burroughs Jr. High School, Fairfax High School and then on to U.S.C.; 4 years undergraduate, then U.S.C. Law School. While at U.S.C., he met his future wife Dorothy in a horseback riding class and it was love at first sight. Tom and Dorothy were married March 14, 1954 and had 54 wonderful years together. After graduating Law School and waiting to see if he passed the bar, Tom got one of the coveted positions, being clerk to a judge. Upon passing the bar, Tom went into private practice in Ventura and was an authority on divorce law. tom received many honors and accolades including one for his 50 years of service to the Supreme Court of California and the California State Bar.

As a couple, they lived a very exciting life. Tom was and an avid outdoorsman with a deep passion for hunting and fishing. With their airstream trailer, they took many wonderful trips. With their sail boat, they had many good times fishing and sailing over the Channel Islands. They enjoyed golfing at the Saticoy Country club. Tom was a member of the Sherriff's posse and rode in many of the parades in Santa Barbara and Ventura on his beautiful Palomino; Cheer. In November, 2008 Dorothy passed away. Tom never got over his grief.

Tom is survived by his sister, Corinne Woolf of Ojai, his nephews Dr. John Buenting of North Carolina, Richard Buenting of Nevada, and niece, Diane Owens from the state of Washington, his brother and sister-in-law Ernie and Eveil Buenting of Upland, Ca and Tom's border collie Vickie who hardly ever left his side.

Also the family wishes to thank his caregivers, Tami and Melanie who took such good care of him.

A graveside service was held February 19, 2011 at Ivy Lawn Cemetery. "Bless you my brother, rest in peace, you and Dorothy are together again." "Death leaves a memory no one can heal. Love leaves a memory no one can steal."