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Thomas Docking Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Docking
Ken Wiese
August 21, 2024
To all the Docking family my warmest best wishes. Jill, I still have many fond memories of you, Tom, Virginia and other family members I was fortunate enough to have made the acquaintance of during my time in Kansas. Take care.
Ken Wiese
August 21, 2020
Jill, I am often taken back by fond memories of you, Tom and, of course, who could ever forget Virginia. I deeply regret that you and your children had to lose Tom so early. I hope you are all doing well.
Ted Ayres
August 20, 2020
Still remembered and still appreciated. R I P
June Arst
December 2, 2017
Hi! Docking Family we just found out Tom is gone we are so sorry for your loss. We enjoyed getting to know Tom at the passover gatherings we enjoyed the time we got to spend with the family. Tom was very sweet to us and enjoyed talking about KU Basket ball with David jr. Tom had a very wonderful personality enjoyed his kind spirit.
Ken Wiese
September 28, 2017
Jill, I only found out about Tom's passing today, almost a month after. I am so very sorry for your and your childrens' loss, as well as that of the rest of the Docking family. As you are aware, my connection to Tom's father and, especially, his grandmother Virginia goes way back.
On this very sad occasion, my mind still takes me back to your, Tom's and my time at KU and later on in Wichita. I remember both you and he as great friends and I have thought of you often throughout the years since.
Kathryn Benage
September 21, 2017
So sorry to hear about Tom passing away too soon! I remember him as a Beta at KU while I was a Theta living next door. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. Rest In Peace Tom.
Linda Stroud
September 21, 2017
My parents were good friends with Tom's parents, and I knew Tom while his dad was in the Governor's Mansion. Also, saw him from time to time over the years and considered him a friend. So from the Stroud Family I would like to convey my condolences.
Roger Parks
September 7, 2017
So very sad to hear of your loss. I will keep you all in my Thoughts and Prayers.
Bernia Williams
September 6, 2017
We are praying with you and for you in this time of separation from your love one .Thank you for all the hard labor that you have done with him as well as by yourself .Ms Jill The world has really been a different place because of your love and your kindness that you have released to Woman to Woman Ministries.
Jill Docking
September 6, 2017
Today I have opened this Guest Book to read all of the kind words from our dear friends. Tom and I have known how blessed we were to have our wonderful marriage ,our terrific children and grandchildren and the best group of friends anyone could hope for------all of your support is a comfort to our family. Treasure the time you have with your loved ones for each day is truly a gift.
Susan Smith
September 5, 2017
Jill, So sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in the family, friends and memories that you and Tom formed together.
Vernon Welkner
September 4, 2017
Please accept the condolences and sympathies of the Kansas Sons of the American Revolution for our compatriot Thomas Docking. May God bless your family as you mourn his loss.
Rev. Dr. Vernon Welkner
KSAR State Chaplain
William Bradley
September 1, 2017
Its a long time and a lot of miles from the times Susan and I shared with you and Tom during our student days at KU, Jill. I always felt Tom was a true gentleman as well as a skilled attorney and public servant. I am so sorry to learn of your loss.
Reid and Mary Lynn Holbrook
September 1, 2017
To Jill and family. Mary Lynn and wish to offer our condolences to you and your entire family. Some of our best recollections are of you and Tom. Our best to you
Sara Schartz
August 30, 2017
Our sincere condolences Jill and family on the loss of Tom. May your memories help you through this difficult time and know we are thinking of you.
Thelma Warner, Charlie Warner and Sara Warner Schartz
Ted Ayres
August 30, 2017
Jill and family: my deepest condolences to you at this time of sadness, loss and grief. May good memories help sustain you in the days and weeks ahead. R I P
Janet WILSON
August 29, 2017
Gone but never forgotten RIP. J. Wilson & Family.
Peter Lorenzi
August 29, 2017
Jill,
Tom was a public servant, a beloved father and husband, a philanthropist, and a forty-year friend from our Lawrence days. We had some memories, in Lawrence and in Wichita. It is difficult for me to express my sympathies for what you must be feeling at this time. I only hope that years of love, family, time, and good friends will help you in these hours.
Connie Corbett-Whittier
August 29, 2017
Dear Jill and Family,
I was shocked and saddened to hear of Tom's death. His parents and mine were such good friends and I have always been impressed with you and Tom. I know it is a hard time and my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Cathy Carroll
August 29, 2017
Jill, my sincere sympathies to you and your family. So sorry for your loss. I know what you're going through and wish I could help you through these trying times. I'm here if you need me.
Ann Reynolds
August 29, 2017
Jill, Brian and the Docking family,
May your wonderful memories of a cherished husband, father, colleague and friend sustain you for a lifetime. The Heavens just received another legend.
Ann Reynolds of the Winer, Levsky Group of UBS Financial Services.
Becky Hopkins
August 29, 2017
Dear Jill,
My dad and I were shocked to hear of Tom's passing. You and your family are in our hearts and prayers and have our deepest condolences. I am so sorry for your loss. Tom was such a good man.
Becky and Don Hopkins
Barbara (Downer) Vernon
August 29, 2017
To The Docking Family, I was very saddened to hear of Tom's passing. I knew Tom as my friend's little brother in Topeka and have always admired the ongoing contributions by the Docking family to the State of Kansas. Please accept my deepest sympathy and condolences during this difficult time.
Terry J. Clark
August 29, 2017
Sorry for the loss of a Super Kansan As I look back in time it was 1968 when I first meet a Docking. Tom's father. I had moved to Wyandotte Cointy from Bates County Missouri As I was active in the Democrat Party in Missouri I had to join in Kansas. Wyandotte County was the place to learn Kansas elections. I had a lot of good teachers from all over the state and meet a lot of fine people. Tom was a super prrson for me go have known and all his family. God bless him and Jill and all the family and his friends. Terry J Clark. Villach Austria Europe
August 28, 2017
Dear Jill,
As old and dear friends we were deeply saddened to hear about Tom.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love, Marcia, Lauren and Andy Schimmel
Longmeadow, Mass
Samanta Cristofori
August 28, 2017
Dear Margery, Michael and family,
Please accept our deepest sympathy and condolences for your loss. After spending time together these past few months we know your family must be very, very special.
Sending our heartfelt prayers,
Samanta & Matt
Scott Swenson
August 28, 2017
We lost one of the finest men I've ever met. Not because of his name, or office, but because of who he was as a man. Tom Docking was more political than politician but the family name propelled him forward. He served as Lt. Gov. but lost a close bid to be the third generation of his family to occupy Cedar Crest.
During the last race I did in Kansas, his wife's 1996 run for Bob Dole's suddenly vacated Senate seat, I lived with Tom and Jill (and Pickles and Winston the dogs and cats I can't name) and the primary campaign was run from their house. This might have been the only thing that ever truly tested their otherwise idyllic romance. Tom was never so happy as primary night when he knew we'd finally move to a downtown HQ. But during the primary campaign, when the other staff had gone home, and Jill to bed, her commercial would come on with the news and about halfway through the ad he'd say, "man did I marry well or what? She's so amazing." Truly. Magical. Love.
During that time and since, Tom routinely took whatever cash I had on me In games of pool. He'd learned the game from the butlers at Cedar Creast during his dad's eight years as governor. I love visiting them whenever home for the routine: scotch, Jeopardy, dinner, pets, pool all peppered with talk of politics, families, friends -- and if during the season -- Jayhawk's basketball. Dinner guests were often a feature in the nonstop love for life that defined Tom Docking.
My heart aches for Jill -- though the last time we spoke she seemed resolute, at peace, and determined to squeeze as much out of life as they could in the time they had. I'm sure they did. Theirs was a storybook romance, unexpected teen love found abroad that brought this young Massasachusetts woman to Kansas for college, marriage, and so much good that these two have done for so many over the years. It's staggering to think how many people in Kansas have been touched by the teen crush turned into amazing love story and family.
My dearly departed mom was Tom's administrative assistant while he was Lt. Gov., and the genrational ties between our families go back to my grandfather and Tom's, who was also a Governor. Tom doted on his mother, Meredith, who was always on hand for Jill's Senate race and a classy Kansas lady who'd seen it all and still didn't seem that impressed by anything but that which truly matters: honesty, trust, family.
Tom cared more about the simple things, like his mom, than many in Kansas hoped he would. Tom chose Tom's path -- something that wasn't easy for a third generation heir to a political dynasty to do.
I'm so lucky to call him friend. RIP Tom Docking, you mensch, you were one of a kind and will be sorely missed.
Maurice Joy
August 28, 2017
Jill - I am so sorry to hear of Tom' death. I send warmest regards at this sad time
Cathy Davis
August 28, 2017
Jill, Brian, Margary and all the family, we would like to extend our sincere sympathy and condolences to you. Thank you for extending your love and support to Charity and Loriah all these years. They love you so much and we do too. Thank you for being their "second" mom and grandma. All our love, Ron and Cathy Davis
August 28, 2017
Jill,
We are so sorry to hear of Tom's passing. You are a wonderful family and you will be in our thoughts.
Larry Braden and Family
Denise Steffens
August 28, 2017
Dear Jill, Brian and family,
I'm so sorry to hear of Tom's passing. My heart goes out to all of you. Please know that you are in my constant thoughts and prayers. My your wonderful memories of Tom comfort you now and always. You have my deepest condolences.
Ardena Matlack
August 28, 2017
Dear Jill and members of your Family,
My sympathy and prayers are certainly with you. He was such a wonderful man of integrity, kindness and thoughtfulness. We've been "on the trail" for so long with your family -since before Gov.George and Virginia moved to Topeka to the Governor's home. You and Tom were such a great couple and accomplished much.He will be greatly missed by the Democratic Community and the Wichita Community. You certainly have my condolences.
Patty Horgan
August 28, 2017
Dear Jill and family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Charline & Jim Beebe
August 28, 2017
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, Jill, as you experience this painful journey. I hope your precious memories with Tom will bring you comfort in time.
Diana Cubbage
August 28, 2017
Words just aren't enough to say how sorry I am that Tom is gone from you and the community that he loved so much. Your love will help you through the next few months but he will still be greatly missed Know I am with you tomorrow in love and spirit.
Leslie Ruthven
August 28, 2017
Our heartfelt condolences to you, Jill and the family. Courtney and I will miss seeing Tom at Democratic functions. His public service and his support of downtown Wichita is a great loss to the whole community.
Les and Courtney Ruthven
Betty Johnson
August 28, 2017
Jill and family - am so very sorry to hear of your loss - my thoughts and prayers are with you all - know he will not be forgotten as he left his mark on so many in so very many different great, wonderful ways - hugs!
Pete Jr and Elena Tavares
August 28, 2017
Ms. Jill and all the Docking family, please accept Elena's and my deepest heartfelt thoughts, prayers and condolences on the loss of Mr. Docking. Above all thank you for sharing him with us, the State of Kansas is oh so much richer for that!!!
Thank you for your service, Mr. Docking. May you Rest In Peace Sir.
Penny Cornett
August 28, 2017
Margery, I was so sorry to hear about your dad. My prayers are with you and your family as you deal with his loss. I know he will be missed terribly.
Charlotte Rohrbach, ASC
August 28, 2017
Dear Jill and Family,
My prayers of love and support are with you at the passing of Tom into eternal life. I did not realize the gravity of his health. Every time I spent some moments with him I considered it a blessing. You hold a special place in my heart. Sister Charlotte
Marilynn Harreld Maddox
August 28, 2017
It was my pleasure to know Tom. We served together on PBS Channel 8 fundraising. He was great man and certainly loved by many.
Kathy Siebert (Regan)
August 28, 2017
Jill & Family,
My heartfelt condolences go out to you and your family. I will surely miss the presence of a truly lovable and kind person.
I believe he is dancing the jig in heaven with all those Irish Democrats.
Our families hearts are with you and your family.
Bob Martin
August 28, 2017
Jill and family,
We were so sorry to learn of Tom's passing. He was a very good man and will be missed. Our sympathies to you and all the family.
Connie Force
August 28, 2017
To the Docking family so sorry for your loss of Thomas, may God be with you and your family always. God bless you all.
Martha Fine
August 27, 2017
To Jill, Brian and Margery, on behalf of the Yankey family I send our love and condolences, and pray for you each day. Please know our hearts and minds are with you.
Lynn Starr-Zito
August 27, 2017
Jill, Brian and Margie, I am so sorry for your loss. Jill you and Tom were so good to me and my grandmother Martha Ford. Words cannot express the sadness I feel to hear of Tom passing. Keeping you and your family in my prayers during this most difficult time.
Ann Hirsch
August 27, 2017
Jill and family,
I was so sorry to hear of your loss.I will be thinking of you on Tuesday and send my love.
August 27, 2017
Jill and family----very sorry to hear of Tom's passing--he was a fine man and we are all for the better in having known him---Don Peters
Mark Scott
August 27, 2017
Bill,
So sorry to hear of your brother's passing. My condolences to the Docking family.
Kathy McClacherty Prochazka
August 27, 2017
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Tom. Like all of the Dockings he was a fine,fine man. He will be sorely missed by his family I know, but also by many others including Democratic party members. My Dad when we lived in Lawrence was friends with his Dad, Bob. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.
June Regan
August 27, 2017
Dearest Jill and family,
Sitting here just thinking back to when you got married, times spent together in the office and all the years on the campaign trail with Tom.
Pat and Tom had lots of conversations through the years and hope they will continue now.
Sorry I can't be there for the service but I will be thinking about you and sending my love.
Kristen Johnson
August 27, 2017
Tom was a man of great probity. He was charming, intelligent and empathetic- everything, in short, that one could ask of an attorney and friend. I will miss his presence in the world greatly. My sincerest condolences to Jill and his family: words cannot express. Kris Johnson
Sherry Skillwoman
August 27, 2017
I am so sorry for your loss & hope you will find Peace in your hearts.
Jim Maloney
August 27, 2017
Terrie and I are very sorry to hear of your loss. I have many fond memories of Tom and I from the Beta house. We will keep you all in our prayers. Jim and Terrie Maloney
Pam (Calderwood) Lister
August 27, 2017
To the Family of Thomas Robert Docking:
Thoughts and prayers are with all of you in your time of sorrow. We knew the family well when my Father Lue Calderwood was alive. My sister and I did a lot of campaigning when we were growing up. May God's love be with you.
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Celebration of Life
10:00 a.m.
Botanica, the Wichita Gardens
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Downing & Lahey Mortuaries & Crematory - East Wichita6555 E. Central, Wichita, KS 67206-1924
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