Dewayne 'Bill' Leroy Tatum

Dewayne “Bill” Leroy Tatum, 82, passed away at his residence on Monday April 20, 2009, surrounded by his family. He was born on February 20, 1927, in Kearney, Nebraska, the son of Walter and Mabel (nee: Warby) Tatum.

Bill was united in marriage to Dorothy Hess in Port Washington on February 12, 1949. He was employed as an operating engineer with Wisconsin Electric, retiring after 38 years of service. Bill proudly served in the United States Army as a Corporal and later served as a Sergeant with the National Guard.

He was an avid Packers fan, and enjoyed NASCAR along with finding enjoyment in bowling, golfing, and swimming and diving at the Racine Quarry. Over and above his interests, Bill found his greatest pleasure spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and his extended family.

Bill is survived by his wife of 60 years, Dorothy, and their children, John (MaryAnn) Tatum of Cudahy, Susan (Ken) Jensen of Waterford, Debra (Terry) Dallia of Racine, Cathleen (Joseph) Nixa of Franksville, Timothy (Laurie) Tatum of Grand Prairie, Texas, Amy (Mark) Carr, and Todd (Sherry) Tatum all of Racine. He is further survived by 17 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Vester Tatum of Indianapolis, Indiana, and Leo (Lois) Staton of Florida; one sister, Sarah “Nancy” Ankney, who he was reunited with after 50 years of being separated as young children. Bill is also survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers, Melvin Tatum and Donald Staton.

In keeping with Bill’s wishes, private services were held at the Sturino Funeral Home.

The Tatum family would like to extend a very special thank you to Dr. Manne and her staff for the fine care and compassion given to Bill during his illness.

Sturino Funeral Home
3014 Northwestern Ave., Racine 262 632-4479