Thomas Ross Cameron

Thomas Ross Cameron, age 75, of Rhinelander, died on December 31, 2023 at Wausau Aspirus Hospital.

He was born on September 26,1948, in Hillside, Ill., the son of John and Florence (Boal) Cameron.

Tom Ross Cameron was a true renaissance man. He was an extremely creative artist, musician and composer, successful entrepreneur, and self-taught himself how to work a lathe. His woodworking was exceptional. He excelled in sculpting, painting and making jewelry. He was an incredible leather craftsman (shoes, purses, sandals, belts, wallets... you name it, he made it) plus he could repair anything.

Tom attended three years of college to become an architect but dropped out his last year when he realized no one would build his creations.

In his day, his musical aliases were Uranian Willy and Aldo Fellini. Tom was a punk rocker and played with groups such as The Buzzards and DNA. He played at New Music America at the Chicago Auditorium sponsored by Mayor Jane Byrne. He was an award-winning artist and took first place at the Wells Street Art Fair in Old Towne Chicago.

Tom was an owner for many years, 1974 to 2002, of Creative Workshop, located in Oak Park, Ill. He also opened Mephisto Shoe Store next door to Creative in the 1990s.

Around 1995 he visited Tomahawk and decided he wanted to move up to Rhinelander. He loved fishing in Wisconsin, especially on Lake George in Rhinelander. That pastime started his love affair with Rhinelander. He bought a home up there and rented it out until he and his wife Rosemary were ready to move in 2002. This began their adventure in the Northwoods, which lasted for 22 wonderful years.

Tom is survived by his wife Rosemary, of 48 years, his two brothers John (Carol) and Bobby, his cousins Don (Janet) and Doug (Cindy), nieces, nephews, other family and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his father John, mother Florence, and his aunts and uncles.

He was a very generous human being and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Services for Mr. Cameron will be held at a later date. Time and location will be published in the River News. You may leave your private condolences for the Cameron family at www.carlsonfh.com. 

The Carlson Funeral Home (715-369-1414) is serving the Cameron family.