Theodore 'Ted' Harry Wilcox (83) of Appleton, passed away peacefully at his home, listening to the Brewer game, surrounded by his family June 9th, 2023.

He was born on August 24th, 1939, to parents Rolland T. and Flora (Neuman) Wilcox in Appleton, WI. Ted lost his mother at the age of 4.  His resilient spirit was cultivated at this young age as he transitioned between relatives, cities, and schools for several years. His father remarried Elizabeth 'Betty' Mesner and he became a big brother to his 4 treasured siblings.

Ted attended St. Joe's and graduated from Appleton High School in 1957. Soon after graduation, he reported for basic training and completed an active reserve program with the United States Army. For the majority of Ted's career, he was a plumber.  He appreciated this career that both used his brain and kept him active.  Ted retired from the Appleton Area School District in 2002 and enjoyed 20+ years of retirement.

Ted married the love of his life, Virginia 'Ginger' Springer on April 23, 1960 at St. Therese in Appleton. Together they raised 6 children Jeffrey (Marcia), Paula, Michael (Pam), Susan, David (Nancy), and Stefanie as well as two foster children.  Their grandchildren, Scott Wilcox, Samantha Wilcox, Sarah (Adam Breit), Jackson (Hannah) Moran, Catherine Michaels, David Michaels, Sydney Wilcox, Gina Moran, Cole Wilcox, Maxwell Theodore VanZee, Bennett Wilcox, Cooper VanZee, Ruby VanZee; Great-grandchildren Emily, Gavin and Brielle.

Ted was a devoted husband and father.  Raising their family, they created many memories: camping and biking with the whole family, building an ice rink in the backyard, horseshoes, picking green beans, Brewers on the radio in the garage, Scouts, 4H, coaching his kid's teams and so many more. He and Ginger stuck together through thick and thin.  As empty nesters, they enjoyed biking and camping at many Wisconsin state and county parks and other trips around the country.  They created many opportunities to spend time with each grandchild, whether it was camping, Brewer games, Badger games or playing cards.  They enjoyed attending as many of their grandchildren's events as possible, concerts, plays, games, school and church events.  He would even surprise people with his hidden talent, 'Donald Duck' voice. Ted was well respected and served on church boards, school boards, and was active in the Foresters.  Ted was a solid, reliable pillar who touched many people's lives, often doing so in quiet ways.

Ted is preceded in death by the love of his life, Ginger, his parents (Flora, Rolland and Betty), two brothers, Kenneth and Peter, and several of his in-laws.  He is survived by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, two siblings, Ann Pesavento and Virginia Wilcox, in-laws and several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Dad's longtime dear neighbors, his care team at Ascension and the Cancer Center, specifically Dr. Abbi, Dr. Winkler, Mary and Ken, and his primary care provider, Dr. Oetken. And finally, thank you to the anonymous blood donors that helped to extend Dad's life.  Allowing him time to take care of things important to him and to spend time with his family.

A visitation will be held on June 24th, from 9-11, with Mass to follow at 11am, at ST. BERNADETTE CHURCH (2331 E. Lourdes Drive, Appleton) with Father Joe Dorner officiating.  In lieu of flowers, a memorial in Ted's name will go to his favorite charitable organization, Leaven.

Happy trails, to you. Until we meet again.