Champion, Thomas Dahlen Age 82. Of Menomonee Falls, formerly of Milwaukee, died on May 16, 2011, in Mequon. Tom was an alumnus of Marquette University and held a Bachelor's Degree and a Master's Degree. He taught English and speech at Washington High School and later became a counselor at the high school. He dedicated 36 years to hundreds of students. Tom was also a swimming coach and a football coach at Washington. Former students love to share stories about how he inspired them and influenced their lives. In 1976, he was awarded Marquette's Educator of the Year Award. Tom was an alderman in Glendale from 1974 to 1982. Politics was always one of his passions. He will be remembered for his gentle and kind nature, his love of books and poetry and lively conversations, and, above all, for his sense of humor. Tom was the funniest man many people knew. The day before he died, his son Bruce asked how he was doing. His reply: "I'm at the top of my game!" Tom is survived by his loving wife of sixty years, Lorraine; daughter Dawn Caballero, sons Bruce (Gail) Champion and Michael Champion, grandchildren Christian Caballero, Cory Champion Hannah Champion and Juliet Champion. Visitation Saturday, May 21, at the Harder Funeral Home, 18700 W Capital Dr, from 11AM - 1PM. Memorials, if desired, to the charity of one's choice appreciated.
Jim Eisenreich
I was a business teacher at WHS for 18 years (1979-1997). Tom was a counselor for many of those years. I remember when he spoke to my classes (several times).
Thank you for the memories!
Jim Eisenreich
Eloise Wilson (1982)
Mr. Thomas Champion was and still is one of my favorite counslers at Washington , he would take the time to talk with you even when it was busy. After graduating from Washington, i thought about Mr. Champion for being a nice man who was a good listener with a kind heart.
Eloise Wilson
Class of '82
Carol Szymanski (Hacker) (1966)
Tom was an inspiration to all who knew him. My husband and I lived in Glendale, WI from 1974-1984. We got to know this incredible human being because of his generous civic work in our community. May God Bless You dear friend. Ironically, you passed away on our 41st wedding anniversary. Rest in peace; you will forever be in our hearts. Carol Szymanski (John) Hacker, WHS class of '66; Custer HS, class of '66.
Karen Radde (Gillett) (1957)
Mr. Champion was a brand new teacher when I had him for English in 1955. I remember how all the girls thought he was quite "dreamy." We all looked forward to his class!