OBITUARY - Tom Schoettler was born in Glendale, California to Hal and Loretta Schoettler, one of six children raised in Central California.  In 1948, Tom played offense for the Madera High School championship football team.

He graduated in 1950 briefly attended Fresno State University when he was called for two years of active duty in the United States Navy in the Korean Conflict where he received numerous citations.

In June 1953, Tom married the love of his life, Ila Jean Cordes, wife of 61 years. Together they proudly raised five sons. Tom went to work for his father, eventually taking over the family tire business for over 60 years with a dedicated staff of past and present employees that he revered as extended family.

Tom was an active member of St. Joachim Catholic Church, he also belonged to the Knights of Columbus and the Italian Catholic Federation. He was a lifelong member of the Madera Golf and Country Club. Recently, he was inducted to the Madera High School Hall of Fame and received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the City of Madera. He was also the Grand Marshall of the Old Timer's Day Parade and a lifetime member of the Madera County Historical Society.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Harold, Jim, Dave and Judy Richards.

He is survived by his wife: Ila Jean Schoettler of Madera, CA. Sister: Mary Oberti and her husband Gary of Madera, CA. 5 sons: Terry Schoettler and his wife Sherry; Tim Schoettler, Keith Schoettler, Kenny Schoettler and his wife Diane and Ronnie Schoettler and his wife Ann all of Madera, CA. He leaves a legacy of 20 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

Tom will always be remembered as a man who never knew a stranger, philanthropist, loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and beloved friend.

The Schoettler family would like to thank all those who helped care for Tom in his final days, especially Optimal Hospice Care.

Visitation will be on Thursday, December 18, 2014 from 2:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. with a Vigil Service beginning at 7:00 P.M. at Jay Chapel in Madera. Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, December 19, 2014 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Joachim Catholic Church in Madera. Private family entombment will be at Calvary Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests remembrances to be made to St. Joachim Church Building Fund, 401 West 5th Street, Madera, CA 93637, the Madera County Historical Society, P.O. Box 150, Madera, CA 93639 or Donor's Favorite Charity.