[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 61 (Wednesday, April 10, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E327]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING THE LIFE OF MR. TOM DAUTERMAN

                                  _____
                                 

                           HON. DOUG LaMALFA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 10, 2024

  Mr. LaMALFA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life, service, 
and career of Tom Dauterman of Chico, California who passed away 
peacefully after a three-year battle with cancer on February 26, 2024.
  Tom was born on July 19, 1942, in Los Angeles, California. His family 
moved to Durham, California in 1948, where he attended school, and he 
graduated as a member of the class of 1960. He worked as a carpenter 
with his father building houses after high school.
  On November 30, 1963, Tom married the love of his life, Sue Mathews, 
and they began their life together, making their home in Chico.
  Tom left his job with PG&E and established Thomas Welding in his 
garage in Chico in 1972. Thomas Hydraulics followed in 1974 as well as 
Thomas Manufacturing in 1996. What was once Tom's small business idea 
now stands as one of the largest machine shops north of Sacramento.
  Tom served the Chico community with excellence, teaching and 
mentoring many and never hesitated to share his time and knowledge with 
those he encountered. His encouragement and support of welding and 
agriculture programs in local high schools has impacted countless 
students in our local community.
  He was a true engineer as well as a builder; taking on many projects, 
which included innovating and developing agricultural equipment.
  Throughout the years Tom enjoyed vacations with friends, and 
attending classic car, boat, and air shows. Most recently he looked 
forward to his weekly visits to Hotel Diamond for coffee, lunch bunch, 
and tea at three. Tom also enjoyed spending time at Lake Almanor and 
hosted an annual 4th of July celebration for 19 years.
  His love for the community of Chico drove Tom to be a faithful 
supporter of the Boys and Girls Club as well as the Salvation Army and 
additionally many other community organizations. Tom was also a 35-year 
member of Chico Rotary, as well as a Chico Elks Lodge member for 53 
years.
  Tom will be missed not only by his family and friends but also by the 
greater Chico community who benefitted from his benevolence. Many 
projects and endeavors were accomplished with Tom's silent 
participation both financially and with hours of hard work. He was a 
true public servant. We forever will be grateful for the legacy he has 
left.

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