In Memoriam: Thomas “Tom” Fitzpatrick
Founder of Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC
Tom believed in seeking justice for people who needed someone in their corner. That commitment remains part of the foundation of our firm.
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of our founder, colleague, and friend, Thomas “Tom” Fitzpatrick. Tom helped build Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC around a straightforward conviction: people facing an injury, loss, or legal challenge deserve to be heard, respected, and represented with determination.
For more than four decades, Tom devoted his legal career to advocating for injured people and their families. He brought experience, preparation, and a strong sense of responsibility to the work. Just as important, he brought genuine concern for the people who placed their trust in him.
A Founder and Advocate
Tom co-founded the firm that became Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC and helped shape its enduring commitment to personal service and careful advocacy. His work reflected a belief that a client should never feel like a file number. He approached each matter with the understanding that an accident or injury can change a person’s life, affect an entire family, and leave difficult questions about the future.
During his career, Tom represented people in complex civil matters and personal injury litigation. He was proud of the results achieved for clients, including a 2001 medical malpractice settlement of nearly $12 million. But the legacy he leaves is larger than any individual case result. It is found in the clients he supported, the colleagues he mentored, and the example of persistence and compassion he set for our firm.
A Life of Learning, Service, and Leadership
Tom was a lifelong scholar and a committed member of the La Crosse community. He graduated from Aquinas High School in 1962, earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse, completed graduate study in political science, and received his law degree from the University of Wisconsin Law School.
Before and alongside his legal work, Tom shared his knowledge as a political science professor at Albright College in Reading, Pennsylvania, and later at the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse. He also served as an Assistant District Attorney for La Crosse County. His interest in public service, civic life, and principled debate remained a constant throughout his life, including his 1994 campaign for the United States Senate.
Tom gave his time to the community through service on the boards of the Family & Children’s Center and LeaderEthics. He believed in the value of building stronger communities and encouraging others to aim high. His advice to those around him was simple and memorable: never “play small.”
Remembering Tom
Outside the courtroom and classroom, Tom was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He loved spending time with his family, traveling to visit those he loved, and enjoying the outdoors. He created a home that welcomed family and friends and took great pride in the life he built with the people closest to him.
We extend our deepest sympathy to Tom’s wife, Holly, his children, grandchildren, extended family, and all who knew and loved him. We are grateful for the time we had with Tom and for the many ways he strengthened our firm and community.
Continuing Tom’s Commitment to Clients
Tom’s belief in dedicated, client-centered representation continues through the attorneys and staff of Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC. If you need legal guidance, please visit our current attorneys or contact our office to discuss your situation with a member of our team.
For help with a personal injury matter, visit our Wisconsin personal injury page, call (608) 784-4370, or contact us online.