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Thomas Zindars Obituary
Thomas W. Zindars
Feb. 21, 1935 - Jan. 5, 2024
MIDDLETON - Thomas W. Zindars passed away peacefully on Friday, January 5, 2024, at Greenway Manor in Spring Green.
Tom was born in Oconomowoc, WI, in 1935, to Elmer and Orabelle (Higgins) Zindars. Tom spent summers helping out at the family-owned Higgins Creamery making Summit Brand butter. The family later relocated to Madison where Tom graduated from Madison East High School in 1953. Stationed in Norfolk, VA, Tom served in the Navy as a sonar specialist on the USS Everglades (Destroyer Tender) and was trained in electronics.
Professionally, Tom worked for the FAA and was responsible for maintaining the instrument landing equipment at the Dane County Airport. He was very mechanically gifted, with an ability to fix nearly anything that could float, fly, or drive. After retiring from the FAA, Tom had a second successful career as a Realtor working for both Century 21 City Wide Realty and Stark Company Realtors in the Madison area. His friendly and highly dedicated character made him a natural in helping countless families buy and sell homes over nearly a 30-year span.
In his earlier years, Tom belonged to the Madison Sports Car Club and owned a number of interesting vehicles. A Ford Cortina was one of his favorites. He also enjoyed family time, fishing, traveling, coffee with close friends, walking in the Middleton Conservancy Park, and even had a go at skydiving.
Tom is remembered by his loving wife, Michele Zindars; son, Mike (Richelle) Zindars; stepdaughter, Becca (Alex) Gebhart; his grandchildren: Madelyn and Sophia Zindars, and Wyatt and Clementine Gebhart; and several dear nieces and nephews. Tom is preceded in death by his parents; his sisters: Marilyn Amlie and Jacqueline Johnson; and granddaughter, Brielle.
Tom's work ethic, firm handshake, sense of humor and kindness were legendary. These will be deeply missed.
An open house Celebration of Life will be held at Holy Wisdom Monastery on January 27, 2024, from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Memorial donations may be made to the Clean Lakes Alliance and The Friends of Pheasant Branch Conservancy.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Zindars
Kathy Graedel
January 18, 2024
Our Sincere Condolences to you at this difficult time Michele, the passing of your Dear Husband Tom. He was always so cordial when we got together years ago.
Brian and Kathy Graedel
Cindy Tagliapietra
January 14, 2024
Such a kind, loving man who had a light about him that was always shining, just like his smile. You will be dearly missed.
Rose Winters
January 14, 2024
Tom was such a caring man. The world is a much better place because of him. He is missed.
Wilma Reid
January 14, 2024
My heart breaks over the loss of Tom. Such a wonderful man he was -- kind, loving, giving, caring, helpful and wise. You will be missed by all who knew you Tom, but most of all I will miss seeing that twinkle in your eye whenever you looked at Michele. RIP my friend. You always be in my heart.
Sonja
January 13, 2024
I was sad to learn that Tom had passed away. I haven't seen Michele and Tom since I moved away from Middleton. Tom was a great, kind man and thinking of him brings a smile to face. Whenever I stopped by the house Tom was busy working on a project, garden or garage but he always stopped and made sure to visit with me. Out of goodwill, Tom fixed many things in my home, the most important & unexpected act of kindness Tom did was bring over a homemade ramp for my dog when he could no longer jump on the couch. Michele, this may have been your ramp from your ankle? I miss you and I am so sorry to hear about Tom, he was such a good man. Tom will never be forgotten.
Your friend,
Sonja
Mary Kay Schimming
January 13, 2024
Dear Michele and family. Im so sorry to hear of your loss of Tom. He was such an awesome friend to me. Very kind and caring. I will always cherish our visits at the front desk at Red Cross when he came in and all his tremendous volunteer support. Rest in peace dear friend. Mary Kay Schimming
Larry Gustafson
January 12, 2024
I too worked with Tom at the Stark Company. Our weekly visits together to upcoming new real estate listings were always something I looked forward to. I´ll miss our friendly interactions.
Susie Jennings
January 12, 2024
I worked with Tom at the Stark Company and remember him as a very kind man. May he rest in peace.
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