In Memory

Jack E Thomas - Class Of 1936

Thomas, Jack E. Of Mequon. Age 94, passed away October 27, 2012. Jack was born and raised in Milwaukee, son of Bessie and George Thomas. Devoted and loving husband of Lorraine (Siekert). Dear father of Bob (Sharon) and Jackie (Bill) Niehaus. Proud grandfather of Jonathan (Meseret) Niehaus and Emily (Scott) Metcalfe; and loving great-grandfather of Elise Olive Metcalfe. Jack is further survived by brother-in-law Dr. Robert (Mary Jane) Siekert. Nephews Robert, Jr. (Linda), Fred (Glenna), and John Siekert; nephews Gary and Greg (Rebecca) Sagemiller also survive him. His sister Jayne and her husband Fred Sagemiller predeceased him. Jack received his bachelor and master degrees in accounting from the University of Wisconsin in Madison. He and Lorraine were married in December 1941. Soon after, he attended Harvard University in preparation to be a naval supply officer in World War II. He spent four years in the supply corps working with early computers. At the end of the war, he served in the naval reserves. In 1951 he was called to active duty for two years during the Korean War. He eventually retired as commander from the reserves. Jack started his civilian career with Arthur Anderson Accounting. He retired as comptroller of the Falk Corporation after many years. In addition, he served on the faculty of UW Milwaukee for 23 years, teaching adult evening classes in accounting. He maintained real estate broker and insurance licenses. Governor Warren Knowles appointed Jack to serve on the Wisconsin Accounting Examining Board from 1965 to 1978. He was a member of the Wisconsin Institute of C.P.A.s, the Institute of Management Accountants, the National Association of Accountants and Beta Alpha Psi accounting fraternity. He served as a trustee on the Menomonee Falls Village Board. Jack and his family lived in Key West, FL, Long Beach, CA, and Milwaukee. In 1949, they moved to a home on 40 acres in the countryside of Menomonee Falls where they remained for a memorable 46 years. Jack thrived on the challenges of living in the country. He enjoyed playing Sheepshead, listening to music, attending the theatre, and spending time with his family. He maintained a life long relationship with his Boy Scout troop. Boating on Wisconsin lakes was a favorite outing. He appreciated vacations with his children and grandchildren here and abroad. Jack is remembered as a friendly man with a sense of humor and love of dark chocolate. The family is grateful to Dr. Scott Jorgensen for his kind care; to Gentiva hospice for their vigilance; to the many caregivers at Newcastle Place; to Carrie and Ken for their faithful companionship; and to Domenica and Ron for their many thoughtful deeds. Jack's body was donated to the Medical College of Wisconsin for medical education and scientific research. A private family memorial service was held. If desired, donations may be made to Alzheimer's Research, 22512 Gateway Center Drive, P.O. Box 1950, Clarksburg, MD 20871-1950. Memories of Jack will always remain in the hearts of his beloved family and dear friends.

Published in Milwaukee Journal Sentinel from November 7 to November 11, 2012