Donald J. Thome

    Donald J. Thome passed away peacefully in the presence and comfort of his daughters, Tuesday June 16, 2015 at the Golden Living Center in Wisconsin Dells.
     Don was born February 20, 1931 in Racine to Frank and Anna (Lochowitz) Thome. He was a 1949 graduate of Washington Park High School and was also proud to serve his country during the Korean Conflict. On September 27, 1957 he married his wife of 58 years, Arlene (Orttel) Thome and after 47 years of employment with Western Publishing Don retired in 1993 to enjoy his golden years traveling with Arlene to Las Vegas as well as several cruises and monthly casino adventure tours.
     Don will be remembered for his 20 years of service as an Ambassador at the YMCA where his friendly and jovial presence will be missed; a position he took pride in, enjoying the opportunity to welcome and encourage others with his warm, bright smile and passion for making new friends. Don loved fishing and hunting, particularly the endless pursuit of the elusive trophy Muskie with his youngest daughter Kristine.
      Don’s greatest love, passion and sense of pride came from his family. Don was very proud of his daughters through their whole lives. From high school sports, particularly coaching Sue in softball, to their careers and accomplishments as adult women, Sue and Kris were the twinkle in Don’s eyes. Whether encouraging Kris’ law enforcement career or helping Sue conquer the small business world, Don always stood by his girls, ready to help and support them.
     In 1993 in addition to his retirement, Don was blessed with another source of pride and joy; his granddaughter Ashley. Don enjoyed watching Ashley grow, her excellence and accomplishment in high school, both as an exemplary student and class Salutatorian, and as stand out athlete in softball; the game he so enjoyed watching his daughters play.
     Don will be dearly missed by his wife Arlene and daughters Susan (Steve) Peasley of Camp Douglas, WI and Kristine (Scott E. Babcock) Thome, as well as his granddaughter Ashley Kaspar, all of Necedah, WI.  He will also be missed by his sister-in-law Elaine Thome of Redderick, FL ; nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and YMCA associates.
     Don was preceded in death by his parents Frank and Anna Thome, his brother Jerry Thome and sisters Bernice (Al) Penn and Mildred (Gilbert) Nelsen, Father and Mother-in-law George and Anna Orttel and brother-in-law Harry Orttel.
     His funeral service, with full military honors, will be held in the funeral home on Sunday, June 21st, at 7:00 p.m., with Rev. Mark R. Jones officiating. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Sunday from 4:00 p.m. until the time of the service. Private burial will take place on Monday in West Lawn Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers the family has suggested memorials to the Alzheimer’s Association.