Thomas Joseph Docter

1935 - 2023

Thomas Joseph Docter

March 25, 1935 - Oct. 24, 2023

CLEARWATER, FL - It's been a perfect journey. I would pick my parents , JC and Edith , over any I have known. That goes for five older sibling heroes. I was the youngest (somebody had to be), thanks!! Thanks also, in equal order, to 1047 Kellog St. Neighbors, Elmore and Annunciation grade schools, GBW class of '53, UW Oshkosh, UW Madison, Madison Barber College, and ten (count them) years of hiding in the UW Law School. Just as memorable are all my clients/ patrons from six barbershops, (three legal!). State Street Popcorn, the Sputnut Shop, the Club Tavern(... "you are not totally educated until you have run a tavern for a year..."), the Doctor Inn and Law Offices,Squalor House and Docter Evergreens. I could not count the fond memories of friends made over the years from above and tennis, golf, hockey, speed skating, music, and neighbors...!

Naturally, I am most proud and thankful for my five kids. All are smarter and higher achievers than my wife, Betsy and I. It was a totally delightful experience. I fell in love with Betsy, St. Paul's organist, as an alter boy, my first day in Madison, before we spoke a word. It only grew for almost 65 years.

The cream cheese frosting on the carrot cake of life has been living at a Regency Oaks in Clearwater, FL, though my roots remain in Wisconsin. I happily shared these years with my seventh grade loyal admirer Ginger. It is my request to have a family get together at my farm in Martinsville, WI. Family and friends will be notified of date and time.

Thanks to all for making my life so wonderful.