Thomas J. Sander

Marshall -- Thomas J. Sander, age 55, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 8, 2010, with his family by his side. He was born on May 23, 1954 in Menomonie, Wisconsin the son of Robert and Ruth (Schlough) Sander. Tom grew up in Eau Claire, Wisconsin and was a member of the Epiphany Lutheran Church. He attended Eau Claire Technical Institute and earned a degree in Electrical Power Distribution. Tom loved his work as a Class A Lineman, and was very proud to have worked for MG&E for over 31 years. He was also a member of IBEW Local 2304.

Tom had a passion for horses, and a natural talent for training them. He was a member of AQHA, and took great pride in the family's equine breeding program.

Tom is survived by his wife of 23 years, Lori (Bilkey) Sander; a daughter, Tori Amalie Sander; his mother Ruth Sander; sisters, Vickie (Brian) Johnson, Cheryl Burchard and Diane Abushhiwa; mother-in-law, Beverly Bilkey; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Tom was preceded in death by his father and an infant son, Clayton Thomas Sander.

Memorial services will be held at OUR SAVIOR'S LUTHERAN CHURCH, 550 Lincoln Drive, Sun Prairie, on Friday, May 14, 2010, at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Julie Krahn officiating. A visitation will be held at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 1310 Emerald Terrace, Sun Prairie, on Thursday, May 13, 2010 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and at the church on Friday, May 14, 2010, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.