San Diego Rotarian Honors Tom Fetter as 'Mr. San Diego 2025'

Honoring a Lifetime of Service and Leadership

San Diego is set to celebrate one of its most dedicated community leaders this fall. In October, the San Diego Rotary Club will honor 91-year-old Tom Fetter as the 71st recipient of the Mr. San Diego award. This prestigious recognition celebrates individuals who have made profound contributions to the city and its residents.

Fetter has spent over six decades as the CEO of T. Fetter and Co. Inc., a business he founded in the 1960s. Beyond his professional achievements, he has been deeply involved in the nonprofit sector, serving on the boards of numerous organizations that shape San Diego’s cultural, educational, and scientific landscape. These include the San Diego Yacht Club, The Bishop’s School, the Fleet Science Center, the San Diego Zoo, the USD School of Law, and the San Diego History Center. He also played a key role in supporting the Breitbard Hall of Fame through fundraising and advocacy.

Fetter has been a member of the San Diego Rotary Club since 1983, and his commitment to community service continues to inspire others. Wendy Urushima-Conn, president of the San Diego Rotary Club, praised Fetter for his ongoing contributions. “Naming Tom Mr. San Diego places him among a roster of impactful San Diegans and formally recognizes his contributions to the city. He’s still very active and is an inspiration to us all,” she said.

The celebration for Fetter will take place on October 16 from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Liberty Station Events Center in Point Loma. The event is open to members and guests, and more information can be found by contacting the San Diego Rotary Club Office at jordan@rotary33.org.

A Legacy of Community Involvement

Tom Fetter's journey in San Diego began in 1934 when he was born at Mercy Hospital in Point Loma. His life has been closely tied to the city, with deep roots in both its culture and economy. Fetter met his wife, Jane, while sailing in 1951, and they married in 1957 during his time at Stanford University. After graduating in 1958, he served in the U.S. Army before returning to San Diego to work in the defense industry.

Over the years, Fetter has built a successful career in business, founding several companies and expanding his operations across multiple sectors. From car washes to marine equipment and retail, his ventures have contributed significantly to San Diego’s economic growth. Despite his many business accomplishments, Fetter has never lost sight of his commitment to philanthropy.

Philanthropy and Community Impact

Philanthropy has been a central part of the Fetter family’s life. Tom Fetter has devoted significant time and resources to supporting institutions that are meaningful to him and his family. He served as a trustee and treasurer of The Bishop’s School for nine years and helped establish the Junior Sailing Program at the San Diego Yacht Club. His daughter, JJ, became a two-time Olympic sailing medalist and developed training programs for young athletes.

Fetter’s involvement with the San Diego Yacht Club included eight years on the board and a term as commodore in 1994 during the club’s defense of the America’s Cup. The Fetter family has also supported the San Diego Zoo for over 80 years, with Tom serving on its board since 1986. During his tenure, the zoo’s investment fund grew from $9 million to over $112 million.

He has also been a long-time supporter of the San Diego History Center, where he has served as a trustee and chairman. Additionally, Fetter has contributed to the University of San Diego School of Law, chairing a capital campaign that raised over $11 million. His support extends to the Shiley Eye Clinic, where he provides fuel for the Eye Mobile, which delivers eye care to low-income children.

A Lasting Legacy

Despite his many achievements, Fetter considers his greatest success to be his family. He and Jane have three children and seven grandchildren, and their legacy continues to shape the community.

The Mr. San Diego award, originally established by the Grant Club in 1952 and later transferred to the San Diego Rotary Club in 1976, is one of the city’s most respected honors. It is awarded to individuals who have made substantial contributions to San Diego’s betterment. Nominees must be living, non-elected officials who have positively impacted the community. The award is purely a recognition of service and not a fundraising initiative.

More details about the award and past recipients can be found on the San Diego Rotary Club website.