"Tom was a delight to be around so many years ago. He was such a good brother. May his family and friends sorrow be replaced soon by happy memories forever. "
In loving memory of
Thomas William Sather
May 22, 1964 - June 27, 2016
MADISON/EAGLE RIVER: Thomas W. Sather, age 52, passed away unexpectedly but peacefully at his home in Eagle River, WI on June 27th, in the arms of his loving wife.
He was born on May 22nd, 1964 in Madison, WI to William and Kathryne Sather (Haugh). Tom married Janet Kleinheinz in 1985, and together they had two children, Tristan and Nicole. Tom attended Edgewood High School (1982) and the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he received his B.A. in Economics, as well as his Master of Science in Business degree in Real Estate Investment Analysis in 1990. He had a brilliant 25-year career that included the development of hotels, resorts, assisted living facilities, and beautiful affordable housing for hundreds of families. His focus was always on providing for others where there was a need. He measured his success by the amount of happiness he could bring to the lives of others, and he taught us that anything is possible if you dream big enough and work hard enough.
Tom was a voracious reader, colorful storyteller, avid hunter, and talented musician. He was a romantic with a wonderful wit. His friends, family, and community knew him well for his adventurous spirit and boundless generosity.
He will be missed deeply by his wife of 31 years, Janet, his son Tristan (Sara), his daughter Nicole, his parents Bill and Kay, his siblings Mary (Larry) Mulenburg, Barbara, Carol and David Sather, and his extended family and friends.
A visitation will be held at Cress Funeral Home, 3610 Speedway Rd in Madison, WI on Friday July 1st from 4:00-7:00pm. Visitation will also be held at St. Mary of the Snows, 1019 E. Wall St., Eagle River, WI on Friday, July 22nd from 10:00-11:30am, with a Celebration of Life Service at 11:30am, and a luncheon to follow.
Cress Funeral Service
3610 Speedway Road, Madison
(608) 238-3434
Tributes
"I have so many fond memories of Tom! During my high school years I practically lived at the Sather's house! I remember having long conversations with Tom about all of his future plans, aspirations and dreams. I can definitely say he ended up surpassing all of mine and his own expectations! He had an AMAZING LIFE and did AMAZING THINGS and always for the benefit of others over himself! Indeed he has an incredibly beautiful soul! He will be missed and I want to send love to his family from the Morrison's. I am so very sorry."
"Rest in Peace, Tom! My favorite Harley adventures were all with you!!!"
"Until we meet again, Tom ~ Peace Brother!"
"Jan and family: I have worked with Tom over the past few years on the development of an affordable housing project in the City of Madison. He was always smiling and was a delight to work with. I am so sorry he was taken from you so young. May the wonderful memories you created give you comfort during this difficult time. Mary Charnitz, City of Madison Community Development Division."
"Jan, In our few short years of knowing each other we have shared many great memories. I just watched a video I shot of Tom giving me a guitar lesson on the back porch. He was playing "The Breeze," a shared favorite. I hope he's with JJ Cale right now, strumming together. My sympathies to you and the kids, and Knocky. "
"Jan and Family With many thoughts and Heartfelt sympathy to you and your family at this time. Although it's hard to understand the loss of one so wonderful and gifted was taken from us way to soon. May loving memories comfort you. Jim and Sharon Vonasek, Eagle River"
"Jan and Family, So very sorry for your loss. Tom will be missed by so many people. We have fond memories of years ago when you lived next door to us. You're in our thoughts and prayers and you have our heartfelt sympathy. Tom and Mary Kay Clauder"
"Holding your family in our thoughts and prayers for this shocking news. Hearing of Tom through Mary, I knew of his amazing spirit, energy, creativity and talent. She shared one of his CDs and I have enjoyed listening to, but never met Tom. Our hearts go out to family and friends. "
"I was in the UW graduate real estate program with Tom. He came to my Mount Horeb house a few times to work on class projects, and I remember talking with him more than once about his dream of developing golf courses. Though I lost touch with him after grad school, It's apparent he continued to dream. My condolences to his family, friends, and real estate colleagues impacted by his loss."
"Dear Jan,Tristin and Nicole,So so truely sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very difficult time. Jer and Michelle Roach"
"Tom, in High School we shared a lot of laughter. Very sorry to hear this! May you rest in peace."
"I went to school with Tom in the WI real estate program. Our paths would cross over the years. I could always count on him to talk with one of my real estate students who wanted to learn about development. He was a kind soul taken too soon. My thoughts are with his family and friends "
"Jan and family I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Mary Byrd"
"Wishing the best for Tom's family. I only knew him as an industry professional,but he was always smiling and full of effervescent kindness and humility. - Chris Laurent"
"We are holding all your family in our hearts and remembering Tom's spirit of fun and adventure when he turned up on our doorstep here in Phoenix so many years ago (was that 1984?) during his cross country venture with friend, Randy."