Tom Daggett

Tom Daggett, 76, passed away peacefully on July 6, 2026, in Texas. He was born on October 4, 1949, in Madison, WI. Tom proudly served his country in the Vietnam War, a chapter of his life that remained close to his heart. He was immensely proud of his military service and always had a story to share about his experiences with family and friends. Tom met the love of his life, Sara, in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. They were married in Waupaca on June 10th, 1972, and built a life filled with love, adventure, and family. Together, they raised two sons, Eric and Pat. Ski jumping was more than a sport for Tom; it was a way of life. The entire Daggett family embraced the sport, traveling together across the country to compete. Tom was an accomplished ski jumper, earning numerous victories throughout his career, including competing internationally. His lifelong dedication to the sport earned him induction into the Ski Jumping Hall of Fame. He also shared his knowledge as a coach, working alongside the U.S. Olympic Nordic Combined coaching staff at the Calgary Olympics in 1988 and traveling the world to support the sport he loved. Tom took great pride in passing that passion on to his sons, creating a legacy that continues through his family. As technology evolved, Tom eagerly embraced it, becoming an accomplished computer enthusiast long before it was common. He also had a lifelong passion for photography and was rarely seen without a camera in hand, capturing both everyday moments and extraordinary memories. Tom found his greatest peace in nature. Summers were often spent in northern Wisconsin, where he managed a campground while happily living out of a pop-up camper. Later, Tom and Sara made their home in Texas but faithfully returned each summer to Boulder Junction. They enjoyed fishing, exploring the Northwoods, and taking evening drives in search of the area's famous albino deer, always with cameras nearby. Nothing brought Tom greater joy than spending time with his grandchildren: Khloe, Alayna, Reid, Sydney, and Jaxon. He delighted in sharing his love of the outdoors and adventure with them, whether it was letting them steer the car down quiet backroads from his lap, racing a side-by-side through giant puddles, or teaching them how to spot eagle nests while boating. Every adventure was carefully documented through his photographs, preserving treasured moments that his family will cherish for generations. Winters found Tom and Sara in Alamo or on South Padre Island, where they enjoyed fresh seafood, beautiful sunsets, and watching SpaceX Starship launches together. They also treasured the many friendships they built at Trophy Gardens in Texas, where they truly felt at home. Tom will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his unwavering love for his family, his deep appreciation for nature, and his remarkable ability to preserve life's most meaningful moments through his camera lens. His legacy lives on in the countless memories he created, the photographs he captured, and the love he shared with those fortunate enough to know him. Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Sara; his son Pat and daughters-in-law Maureen and Jennifer (Eric); his grandchildren, Khloe, Alayna, Reid, Sydney, and Jaxon; his brother Tim; his niece, Jamie; and his nephew, David. He is preceded in death by his son Eric and his parents, Joan and Arthur.

Tributes

Tom Daggett

July 6, 2026