Obituary of Thomas E. Zemlicka

Thomas “Tom” Edward Zemlicka, 85, of Boise, Idaho passed away in his home on November 7th, 2023. Tom is predeceased by his parents, Edward Henry Zemlicka and Verona Geneva Fitzpatrick, his sister Sally Zemlicka Hanson, and his first grandchild Steven Remington Groves. 

Tom is survived by his wife of 59 years, Elizabeth “Liz” Armell Zemlicka, his brother James Zemlicka, his children David Thomas Zemlicka and Amy Zemlicka Groves, and his two grandchildren Katherine Groves and Mattias Zemlicka.

Tom was born January 16th, 1938 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin where he spent his childhood. He served four years in the U.S. Navy as a radar operator. He later became an air traffic controller and met his lifelong partner Liz Armell in Chicago, Illinois. They married in 1964 in Sun Valley, Idaho and moved to Boise shortly after to start a family. 

Tom enjoyed spending time outdoors hunting, fishing, and jet boating. He loved exploring Idaho’s beautiful nature and some of his favorite spots included Hagerman, Idaho and the Salmon River. He also enjoyed watching the Green Bay Packers, spending time with family, and traveling.

In Boise, Tom was an active member of the community. He was a dedicated stockbroker for 54 years and played a crucial role in bringing D.A. Davidson to Boise. He was a member of El Korah Shriners, Pleasant Valley Skeet Club, Brain Trust Investment Group, and more. Above all, he will be remembered for his sense of humor and quick wit. His personal saying was “I’ve never had a bad day in my life”.

Family is asking for donations to be made in Tom’s name to Ducks Unlimited, an organization he was part of and very passionate about. 

A celebration of life will be held in his honor at a later date for close friends and family.