Thomas McCotter

Tom was born Jan. 8, 1931, son of Howard and Louise (Peters) McCotter. He was the fourth of six children. He is preceded in death by his parents Howard and Louise McCotter; brothers Larry, Phil and Jack; and sister, Mary Lou McCormick (Dick).

Tom is survived by his wife of 59 years, Donna; children, Kathleen (John Koster), Daniel (Christina Rigby) and Susan (Rich Finn); grandchildren, Emily Cialdini (Vince), Nicholas Pier, Madeliene Pier and Eleanor Pier, and Jack McCotter; great-grandchildren, Emilia and Nellie Cialdini; and sister Judy (Don Laub).

Tom graduated from Marquette University High School in 1949 and attended Marquette University after serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.

In 1956, Tom, his father Howard and brother Larry established McCotter & Sons, Inc. a manufacturers’ representative agency for boiler and HVAC systems. His reputation and knowledge in the industry is still held in the highest regard and remains legendary to many who worked with him through his 60-year career.

In life and business, Tom earned the respect of those who knew him. Though a man of few words, all knew his ethos; honesty, integrity, decency, kindness, hard work, to lead by example, family and friends first-always. Tom leaves this legacy and example to his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and his many nieces, nephews and friends, as well as his entire family at McCotter Energy Systems.

Tom’s Catholic faith was a cornerstone in his life. He was a devoted husband and father and inspired his children with a sense of duty and to always put others before oneself. He lit up when in the presence of children and was quick to entertain them with a smile and now infamous series of funny faces. Tom, a consummate gentleman, lived a full life filled with laughter, good times, good friends, and family. He was loved and will be missed by so many.

A special thank you to Marshfield Clinic Home Health and Hospice of Dickinson County for their compassion and assistance caring for Tom in his final days at the cottage.

Family will greet friends from 9:30 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 14 at Holy Family Catholic Church, 4825 N Wildwood Ave, Whitefish Bay, WI 53217.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated immediately following at 11 a.m., with a reception to follow.

Memorial gifts may be made to Marquette University High School, 3401 W Wisconsin Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53208, or a charity of choice.

Condolences to the family of Tom may be expressed online at www.ortmanfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements were made with the Ortman Funeral Home in Norway.