Thomas Joseph Koleski

Thomas Joseph Koleski, age 83, of Eau Claire, WI passed away peacefully in his sleep with his wife of 58 years by his side at home on June 21st, 2024. He was born on May 11th, 1941, in Ashland to John Walter and Martha Rose (Dennis) Koleski. A graduate of Ondossagon High School in 1959. Wedding vows were exchanged with Linda G Tolliver on November 5th of 1967 at Holy Family Catholic Church in Ashland WI.

A loving husband, father and grandfather, Tom enjoyed the outdoors as an avid hunter and fisherman spending many days on the banks of Fish Creek in Moquah WI. As a proud veteran serving in the Air Force from Oct 12th, 1959, to Oct 11th of 1963, he would share many stories of the time spent in Okinawa, the Philippines, and Vietnam. After retiring from Excel Energy in system operations, Tom built his dream home on the shores of Spider Lake next to the family cabin. He was very involved with the Chequamegon ATV Club as a Trail Ambassador / Safety Instructor as well as grooming snowmobile trails in the Delta area for the Iron River Snowmobile Club along with being involved in the leadership of Cub Scouts for many years. He was recently recognized with induction into the ABC Raceway "Hall of Fame" for his time spent as a flagman.

Tom is survived by his wife Linda G. Koleski (Tolliver) siblings: Edward Koleski, Alice (David) Tolliver, Marcia (David) Wiberg, Walter Koleski; his children: Thomas Koleski Jr., Timothy Koleski and Terry Koleski; and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His wisdom of the outdoors, home, and auto repairs was greatly appreciated by many family members, friends, and neighbors over the years. Tom proudly attended many sporting events to encourage his sons and grandchildren. He was often heard saying "Have fun but don't be foolish!"

Tom was preceded in death by his father and mother; John Walter and Martha Rose (Dennis) Koleski; mother-in-law, Olga Margret Tolliver; brother, Peter Koleski and sister, Rita E Moore.

A celebration of Tom's life will be held at the Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spooner, WI to honor his memory and time spent in the Armed Forces. The date to be determined.

In lieu of flowers or cards, Tom would have wished for all his friends and family to share memories, stories, and laughter together.