Andrew J. Tomasoski

Andrew Tomasoski, age 91, the quiet, thoughtful man who underlined each day with prayer and thanks, loved and appreciated his wife, three children, seven grandchildren, six great grandchildren, sisters and brothers, in-laws, nieces and nephews and each leaf on his family tree, rests now in peace. He died on November 13, 2015 at the Iron River Care Center. Born on April 2, 1924, in Norway, MI, the son of Joseph and Katherine (Bilski) Tomasoski, Andrew graduated from Stambaugh High School in 1942, married Valerie Bal, daughter of Jacob and Magdalena Bal, on May 17, 1947, and they built their home and raised their family in Gaastra, celebrating each of their 68 years together. Andrew loved his community and his country and served during World War II with the Army's 151st Infantry, participating in the New Guinea, Southern Philippine, and Luzon Campaigns. Like many other members of the Greatest Generation, Andrew was very reserved and humble about his military experiences, but also extremely proud to have served his country. After his military service he worked for the Hanna Mining Company for over 30 years. Andrew is survived by his wife Val, son Don (Anna) of Chula Vista, CA, daughter Mary, Grand Haven, MI, daughter-in-law Norma (Tom) of Flushing, MI, sister Dorothy Anderson and sister-in-law Betty Bal of Gaastra, sister Jean (George) Johnston, Edina, MN, brother David (Johnette) Manistique, MI, and sisters-in-law, Florence Brumm, Marquette, MI, and Ginger Bal, Wyoming, MI. Andrew was preceded in death by his parents, son Paul/Tommy, sister Esther, and brothers Lawrence and Raymond Throughout his life Andrew thoroughly enjoyed hearing about each accomplishment of a family member, neighbor or friend, and diligently prayed for those who faced challenges, accepting his own struggles without complaint or discouragement. He spent time hunting and fishing in his younger days and enjoyed nature and wildlife, loved listening to country and polka music, and enjoyed trying new recipes, photography, wood-working projects and working in his yard. The family will receive visitors at Jacobs Funeral Home in Iron River from 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, November 18, 2015 and The Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m. at St Cecilia Catholic Church in Caspian, with Rev. Gregory Veneklase officiating. The West Side Veterans will accord Military Rites at the service. Per his wishes, Andrew's remains have been cremated and interment will be in Stambaugh Cemetery at a private ceremony. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Andrew J. Tomasoski, please visit our flower store.