Thomas A. Poker Obituary
Wisconsin Educator and Outdoorsman,Tom Poker,Remembered
Baraboo,WI – Tom Poker,a beloved educator who dedicated over three decades to shaping young minds in the Slinger School District,passed away peacefully on december 11,2024.He was 71.
Born in Milwaukee on November 28, 1953, Tom grew up in Cedarburg, graduating from Cedarburg High school in 1972. He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree and teaching certificate from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point in 1976.
Teaching was more than a career for Tom; it was his passion. For over 30 years,he inspired countless elementary school students (K-5) in the Slinger School District,leaving an indelible mark on their lives. He was also an active member of the Slinger Education Association.
Beyond the classroom, Tom found solace and joy in the outdoors. Hunting and fishing trips with his sons were cherished memories, as were summers spent tending to his property on Big Cedar Lake. Family vacations on the Chippewa Flowage held a special place in his heart, creating lasting bonds with loved ones.
“To Tom, teaching was not a career, it was his passion and calling,” his family shared.
Tom is survived by his sons, Paul (Heather) of Baraboo and Peter of denver; grandchildren Tyler, Peyton, and Taytum; brother David poker of Milwaukee; and sister Susan Poker of garland, Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents, adrian and patricia (Bernard) Poker.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Meadow View Memory Care and Agrace Hospice for the compassionate care tom received in his final years.
Tom Poker’s legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched as an educator, a father, and a friend. His love for teaching, his passion for the outdoors, and his unwavering dedication to family will be deeply missed.
Remembering Tom Poker: A Life Dedicated to Education and the Outdoors
Baraboo, WI – The Slinger School District and the broader community mourn the loss of Tom Poker, a beloved educator who passed away peacefully on December 11, 2024, at the age of 71. Tom’s impact extended far beyond the classroom, leaving a legacy of passion for teaching, love for the outdoors, and unwavering dedication to his family.
Tom’s journey began in Milwaukee on November 28, 1953.He grew up in Cedarburg, graduating from Cedarburg High School in 1972. After earning his bachelor’s degree and teaching certificate from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens point in 1976, Tom embarked on a career that spanned over 30 years, shaping the lives of countless elementary school students (K-5) in the Slinger School District.
For Tom, teaching wasn’t just a profession; it was a calling. He brought energy and enthusiasm to the classroom, inspiring young minds and fostering a love of learning. His dedication earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues, who remember him as an active member of the Slinger Education Association.
Beyond the school walls, Tom found solace and joy in the embrace of nature. Hunting and fishing trips with his sons where treasured experiences, as were summers spent nurturing his property on Big Cedar Lake. Family vacations on the Chippewa Flowage held a special place in his heart, creating lasting memories and strengthening the bonds of love with his family.
Tom’s love for his family knew no bounds. He is survived by his sons, Paul (Heather) of Baraboo and Peter of Denver; grandchildren Tyler, Peyton, and Taytum; brother David Poker of Milwaukee; and sister Susan Poker of Garland, Texas. He was predeceased by his parents, Adrian and Patricia (Bernard) Poker.
tom’s family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staffs at Meadow View Memory Care and Agrace Hospice for the compassionate care he received in his later years.
Tom Poker’s legacy will forever be intertwined with the Slinger community and the countless lives he touched. His passion for teaching, his love for the outdoors, and his unwavering dedication to family will continue to inspire and be deeply missed.