Tad David Satterfield, son of Rae (Penberthy) and the late Sam Satterfield, and stepson of John Womack, was born July 28, 1970 at St. John’s Hospital in St. Louis. He grew up in Desloge, Missouri and attended North St. Francois County schools. A standout singer and pianist in high school, Tad graduated from North County High School in 1988. Before going to college, Tad spent a year in Belgium as a foreign exchange student, where he became fluent in Dutch.

Upon returning to the United States, Tad enrolled at Mineral Area College, where he was a cheerleader and involved in the music program. After two years at MAC, Tad transferred to Southeast Missouri State University and graduated with a bachelor of science degree. While at SEMO, Tad was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity and the award-winning cheerleading squad.

Never one to stay in one place for too long, Tad held a number of positions in his career in the healthcare field. Those jobs took him to such places as Houston, Chicago, St. Louis, and eventually to Lincoln, Nebraska where he met his life partner in 2003. Tad returned to St. Louis in 2006 with Cameron in tow.

Imbued from birth with a fighting spirit, Tad was involved in many causes dear to his heart, including marriage equality for same-sex couples, cancer awareness, environmentalism, and human rights. Tad described himself as a “bleeding heart lefty liberal,” and would often engage people in discussions about social policy and reforms.

In January 2008, Tad was diagnosed with a brain tumor known as glioblastoma multiforme. True to his spirit, Tad fought cancer bravely and exceeded his doctors’ expectations. He continued to work, travel, and touch peoples’ lives throughout his battle against the disease. One year to the date after his diagnosis, Tad got a Superman tattoo on his left shoulder, with a “T” in place of the “S.”

Tad entered eternal rest on February 8, 2010 in St. Louis. He is survived by his life partner Cameron Satterfield, mother Rae Womack, sister and brother-in-law Laura and Steve Elam, nieces Abby and Ella Gant, and his beloved dachshunds Isabel, Meeko, Lucy, Tido, and Tilly. He was preceded in death by his father Sam Satterfield, stepfather John Womack, and beloved dachshund Palo.

A Celebration of Life is planned on Saturday, February 20 at Metropolitan Community Church of Greater St. Louis, 1919 S. Broadway. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to the Southeast Missouri State Foundation, C/O the Tad Satterfield Scholarship, 1 University Plaza, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701.