J. Quirk

MADISON- J. Thomas "Tom" Quirk, Ph.D.
The world is a gentler place because he lived.
J. Thomas "Tom" Quirk was born to Edward Anthony Quirk and Leone Regina Stillmunks, January 21, 1933 in Dubuque Iowa. Tom died peacefully in his home of many years on December 3rd, 2012 in the warmth of his family's love, following a brief battle with recurrent cancer.
Tom is survived by his loving wife and partner of 55 years, Barbara Wathen Quirk. He is also survived by his four children, Amy (Eric) Weiss, Redwood City, CA, Christopher (Kimberly) Quirk, Chicago, IL, Matthew (Peggy) Quirk, Maple Grove, MN, and Kate (Dave) Panetti, Bloomington, MN. Tom is further survived by his nine grandchildren, of whom he was very proud; Tommy and Sophie Panetti, Cuchulainn, Caitriona, Josiah and Beatris Quirk and Andrew and Michael Quirk and Danny Weiss.
Also left to miss him are sister in law, Susan Wathen, brothers in law, Robert (Chieko) Wathen and Thomas (Carol) Wathen as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Dr. Quirk attended Iowa State University, Syracuse University, completing his doctoral studies in wood technology at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. Following completion of his graduate degree, he served on the research staff of the U.S. Forest Products Laboratory until forming Quirk Consulting, a career in wood identification and analysis that he greatly enjoyed.
Tom was a member of the 1st U.S. Airborne Division, Army Reserves, retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
Tom loved nature in all of its forms, deeply appreciating God's handiwork. Tom treasured his many friends, his neighbors and his neighborhood. Above all, Tom was a devoted family man whose finest moments were spent in their company.
He will be loved forever.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to The Woodland Committee of The Friends of Hoyt Park. P.O. Box 5542, Madison, WI, 53705.