Thomas Belter

Thomas Belter, age 74, of Watertown, WI, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on October 13, 2024, at Angels Grace Hospice. Born on January 30, 1950, in Milwaukee, WI, Thomas was the son of Myron and Leona Belter.

Tom graduated from Bayview High School and went on to serve his country with honor in the United States Marines from 1968 to 1975. His time in the military was a source of immense pride for him throughout his life, embodying principles of service and dedication. On March 27, 1969, he married the love of his life, Helen, in Kalamazoo, MI, and together they raised 8 beautiful children.

Tom possessed a passion for photography, genealogy, and music, delighting in playing his 12-string guitar. He also found solace in his faith, serving as a Preacher and even transforming his barn into a church where he shared his spiritual insight with his community.

He was also a skilled contractor who owned his own construction business, Bethel Builders. He was known for his strong work ethic and attention to detail. Tom was also known for his exceptional craftsmanship and ability to fix anything, as well as his passion for working with wood. He humbly referred to himself as a "jack of all trades, master of none," but to those who knew him, he was indeed a master of all. Tom had a heart of gold, always willing to lend a hand to those in need.

Tom is survived by the love of his life, Helen; his beautiful children Tammie (Robert) Craig, Jennifer (Dennis) Fosdal, Thomas Belter, Nicole (Anthony) Johnstone, Jason (Pamela) Belter, James (Stephenie) Belter, Crystal (Peter) Flannagan and David (Brittney) Belter; grandchildren Kevin (Natasha), Michelle, Austin (Pam), Pauline (Kyle), Collin, Alyssa, Amanda (Tyler), Jenna, Chrisianna (Logan), Caleb, Vanessa (Ryan), Alex, Ashley (Kevin), Dustin (Sofia), Justin, Devon, Paige, Daniella, Austin, Baby Belter, Jozlynn, Lilli, Jazmynn and Ezekiel; great-grandchildren Kylie, Declan, Amelia, Charlotte, Dominic, Tyler Jr., Zayla, Mireya, Braxton, Amara and Liam; siblings Karen Olsen, John Belter, Diane (Brian) Kleinowski, Deborah (Stephen) White, Gina Belter and Margaret Hanley; He is also survived by many other family and friends.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents; step-mother Helen Belter; sisters Kathleen Thompson and Germaine Mellema; brother Daniel Belter; and great-granddaughter Kairi.

The family would like to humbly thank our Lord Jesus for blessing us with Tom and for the countless memories and moments we shared with him. His impact on our lives will never be forgotten and his spirit will live on in our hearts forever. May he rest in peace, knowing that he was truly a hero to all who knew him.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to the compassionate care provided by Angels Grace Hospice and the dedicated support of Shawn from Prohealth ICU at Oconomowoc Memorial Hospital during Tom's final days.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Angels Grace in Tom's name are welcome.

A visitation to celebrate Tom's life will take place on Tuesday, October 22, 2024 at Pagenkopf Funeral Home (NEW LOCATION: 2228 N. Silver Maple Lane, Oconomowoc, WI 53066) from 1:00pm-4:00pm with a service to follow. Military honors will take place to commemorate his service and dedication to his country after the service. Tom will be laid to rest at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in a private burial service.