Thomas Joseph Kolesa passed away at home on Monday, January 4, 2021 at the age of 96. He was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. Thom was born on July 20, 1924 in Edwardsville, IL to Katherine and Frank Kolesa. He married Anita Rogers in 1942. They went on to have three children and were married for seventy-two years.
Thom served in the US Marines during WWII with a deployment to Okinawa. He later went on to work as a mechanical engineer after the war and retired from the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce.
Thom led an experience-filled life and had a passion for travel. He published two books and volunteered at the National WWII Museum in New Orleans. He never met a stranger and would make a point to speak to other veterans whenever the situation arose. Thom was active in church and always took joy in helping others.
Thom is survived by two children, Leslie Kolesa and Tim Kolesa, his friend, Suzi Lanier, his grandchildren, Ronnie Weiand, Corey Weiand, Anthony Kolesa, and Dylan Kolesa, his great-grandchildren, Seth Ockert, Felix Kolesa, Cameron Kolesa, Kaleigh Weiand, and Emma Weiand, and his great-great-grandchildren, Brantley Ockert and Brayden Ockert. Thom was preceded in death by his wife Anita, his son, Rev. Scott Kolesa, and his brothers, Frank Kolesa Jr., John Kolesa, and Roy Kolesa.
A celebration of Thom’s life will be held on Saturday, January 16, 2021 at Good Shepherd Church in Metairie. Visitation will be held from 9AM-11AM with a service to begin at 11AM.
If you would like to view the service online, please call (504)534-8811 to receive instructions.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Thom’s honor to the Veterans support charity of your choice.
To view the services please visit, https://youtu.be/CHAIAKXMlvY at 11AM CST
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