Thomas E. Mccarthy

Thomas Edwin McCarthy passed away peacefully under the care of Ministry Home Care Hospice at his home in Wausau on his 77th birthday, November 18, 2010. He was born in Wausau to the late Edwin and Irene McCarthy on November 18, 1933. On October 15, 1955, he married Judith "Judy" Hull in Wausau. She preceded him in death on June 21, 1997. He attended St. Mary's School and Wausau Senior High School. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1951 to 1955 and had overseas duty.Tom was a professional firefighter for the Wausau Fire Department for 31 years, retiring in 1989. He was admired as the chef for his fire department crew, especially for preparing feasts of fish and wild game. Tom was an ardent sportsman who loved hunting and fishing. He spent many happy times in Hayward WI with his friend John Harkness and his sons and other close friends hunting the "north woods" He was a private pilot, having a passion for airplanes and flying. He had an acute sense of humor and was known and loved by many friends for his hospitality, cooking skills and elaborate practical jokes. No one ever left Tom's house hungry. He was a loving dad, grandfather and friend to many. Throughout the years his home was a gathering place for all to share his good cooking, jokes and his love of music. He especially loved his Sunday morning Polkas. He leaves behind his beloved dog "Puddles" that has been his best friend and companion for the past three years. He loved his church and God. His signature Motto was "say your prayers". Survivors include, six children, Michael "Mike" McCarthy, Wausau, Patty (Frank) Rich, Gurnee, Ill., Mary McCarthy and Tim McCarthy, both of Wausau, Tom (Rochelle) McCarthy, Schofield and Katie (Mike) Drake, Wausau; 16 grandchildren; three great grandchildren; and one brother, William "Bill" (Jane) McCarthy, Wausau, brother-in-law Bob Hull, Wausau, and Fred and Phyliss Moody, Nome Alaska. Besides his parents and wife, Judy, he was preceded in death by one grandson, Elliot Stieber and one sister, Shannon Wilson. The memorial mass will be celebrated at 1:00 p.m. Friday November 26, 2010 at Holy Name Catholic Church, Wausau. Rev. Gerald Pehler OFM Cap. Will preside. Burial will be in Restlawn Memorial Park, Wausau. Friends may call on Friday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of services at the church. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund is being established. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth Street, Wausau, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com