Thomas "Tom" Anthony Grenisen

Thomas “Tom” Anthony Grenisen, 80, of Rush County, passed away November 6, 2024. He was born in LaCrosse, WI, June 21, 1944, to the late Frances W. and Mary (Coughlin) Grenisen. Tom was a 1962 graduate of Aquinas High School and earned his Bachelor’s Degree in political science from the University of Wisconsin in 1966. Tom served in the US Army during the Vietnam War from 1966-1969. He was a platoon leader and was named advisor to the Vietnamese Regional and Popular Forces. His experiences as a 1st Lieutenant were fascinating to his grandchildren, especially stories about Jungle Warfare School and contracting malaria. After being honorably discharged in 1969, Tom began a long and successful career in corporate recruiting and human and industrial resources management. His work with the Trane Company brought him to Rush County in 1971, where he met and married, in 1978, the love of his life, Claudia Suzanne (Butler) Grenisen, who survives. When Tom married Claudia, he also made a commitment to her two young children, Andrew Smith and Suzanne Smith Leisure (Nick), who survive. Tom had many good ideas such as trips to Disney, bringing home puppies, buying lots and lots of toys at Christmas and ordering Pizza King for the kids when Claudia was at work. Tom enjoyed being with his family, especially his four grandchildren, more than anything. He was a beloved Papaw to the children and could be counted on to babysit, sneak candy, referee wrestling matches and watch countless sporting events, concerts, dance recitals and awards programs. In Tom's opinion, there were never more smart, talented and gorgeous children born than Rye, Rowan, Cass and Claudia Scarlett. Tom also enjoyed reading about history and politics, playing trivia games and singing. He loved animals, all holidays, buying flowers and jewelry for his wife and watching football – especially the Green Bay Packers. In addition to his wife, children and grandchildren, Tom is survived by his sister, Patricia Young of San Luis Obispo, CA, and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Mary Horschak, James Grenisen and Elizabeth Degenhardt. Services will be held Monday, November 11, 2024, at Moster Mortuary at 1 PM with Warren Engle presiding. Friends are welcome to visit the family from 11 AM until the time of service in the mortuary. Burial will be held in Raleigh Zion Cemetery with a meal to follow at the Raleigh Community Club. Memorial contributions may be made to Rushville Animal Shelter.

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Thomas "Tom" Anthony Grenisen

June 21, 1944 - November 6, 2024