Thomas Louis Kosiba

Thomas Louis Kosiba (76) of Minocqua passed away on September 3, 2006. Born March 2, 1950, in Hammond, Ind., Tom grew up in Calumet City, Ill., and was always proud of his Polish immigrant family roots. After graduating Thornton Fractional North High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and went through basic training at Recruit Training Station, Great Lakes. He served as an Aviation Electrician’s Mate from 1969-1972 during the Vietnam War. Tom always joked he joined the Navy to see the world and never left the U.S. Shortly after his enlistment was complete, he moved permanently to the Minocqua area, a place he had fallen in love while vacationing with family and friends throughout his childhood and teen years.

He worked for the town of Minocqua for over thirty years, with most of that time spent working on the town’s road crew. A lifetime member of American Legion Post 89 (and a Past-Commander) and Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 256, Tom could often be found frying steaks during a steak fry or tending bar during Legion parties. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Dorothy, and survived by his wife, Kathy, his daughters, Sara and Erin, his sister, Annette, and many nieces and nephews and extended family. 

Cremation took place and Military Honors will take place at Northwoods National Cemetery in Harshaw at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to American Legion Post 89 or Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 256.

Online condolences may be shared at www.nimsgernfuneral.com. Nimsgern Funeral & Cremation Services is serving the family.