Ely Twp. - Thomas R. Cottom, age 78, of Ely Twp., passed away Friday, December 23, 2022, at his home of a presumed heart attack.

Thomas was born in New Orleans, LA on September 24, 1944, a son of the late Lois D. (DeRocha) Schott and Thomas C. Cottom. Tom grew up in New Orleans where he had graduated from high school. Tom then served his country in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War Era, with two overseas tours and subsequently was stationed at the KI Sawyer Air Force Base.

Tom had worked for various employers, including the New Orleans Fire Dept., was self-employed, the United States Government,  Cleveland Cliffs Iron Co., Upper Peninsula Power Co., and retired from WE Energies in 2006 from the Presque Isle Power Plant.

Tom was a lifetime member of the American Legion Post #349 in Little Lake where he had served several positions including on the Executive Board, was past Commander, and served with the Honor Guard for several years.  Tom always enjoyed his meals and camaraderie at Sherrie's restaurant.

Thomas is  survived by two daughters, Tracie (Brian) Fox of Cascade, WI and Tammie (Corey) Magnuson of Ely Twp, MI; sister, Lois (Herb) Tufts, of Ocean Springs, MS; 5 grandchildren, Courtney (Damian) Damphouse, Annika Fox, Rylie Fox, Aubrie Magnuson and Thomas "TJ" Magnuson; a great grandson Crew Damphouse; along with several nieces and nephews. Tom was preceded in death by a brother Michael Cottom and his former wife Judith Cottom on June 14, 1999.

Private funeral services will be held at the Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home where military honors will be accorded by the United States Air Force.

Tom's obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.