Thomas John Echtner Obituary
Thomas John Echtner, born on August 1st, 1932, in Green Bay WI passed away peacefully on March 4th, 2025 at the age of 92.
Tom attended St. Norbert College in Green Bay before enlisting in the Army and serving in the Korean War. Upon returning home Tom attended UW Madison where he received his Masters in Fine Art. After graduation he received a position with the UW Extension developing a new program - which came to be the University Craftsmen (Inc.) project - helping develop artisan products to make and sell, giving skills and a source of income to disadvantaged communities throughout the state. Tom went on to become the director of the arts programing for the UW Extension at the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee.
Tom is survived by his wife, Joan (nee Heim) of 64 years;. His sister Patricia Janssen, his children, Christine Echtner (Jeff Georgson), Mark Echtner, Teresa Blatz (Bill Blatz) and his grandchildren Samantha Georgson, Adam Blatz and David Blatz. Tom is preceded in death by his parents John Echtner and Margaret Echtner. Tom was a kind and gentle man and will be remembered for his wonderful sense of humor, his thoughtful demeanor and his calm, introspective approach to life.
Funeral service will be held at Lumen Christi Catholic Church 2750 W. Mequon Rd., Mequon, WI. 53092 on Wednesday March 19th with visitation from10:30-11:45 followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00pm.
