Thomas “Tom” Patrick Cusick, 75, of Shell Lake, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family in his home, on March 16, 2024.
He was born April 28, 1948, in Shell Lake, to Earl and Stella (Livingston) Cusick. He was married to his high school sweetheart and love of his life, Audrey Irene Kramer, on Dec. 2, 1967.
After high school, he spent four years serving his country in the United States Air Force stationed in Texas, during which time he and Audrey welcomed their firstborn, Tammy. After his time in the Air Force, Tom and Aud moved back to Sarona where they welcomed two more children, Christine and Mark.
Tom worked for the Washburn County Highway Department for 35 years before his retirement. Throughout his life, Tom was an active member of the community and was always caring for those around him. He was the Shell Lake Lions Club president, served on the Glenview board and was an active member of the Sarona and Shell Lake United Methodist Church serving as the Men’s Club president, on the board of trustees and sang in the church choir.
In his free time, he enjoyed many outdoor activities including gardening, landscaping, hunting, trapping, fishing and golfing, and after retirement he and Aud enjoyed long hours tapping trees, collecting and boiling sap to make homemade maple syrup. Tom was an avid photographer, enjoyed time in his garage woodworking, playing piano and spending time with his family. He also worked hard to build two beautiful homes for his bride, fulfilling their dream to live amongst nature on a quiet small lake.
Tom’s laughter was loudest when he was pulling pranks, joking around with family and friends and finding new adventures to go on. He always found new experiences and activities to do while gathering together with family and friends. His strong will and determination showed through in everything he did.
He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Audrey; children, Tammy (Phil) Holman, Christine (Russ) Blasius and Mark Cusick; grandchildren, Emily (Brett) Jordan, Brett Holman, Calista Holman (Ien Novak), Aiden Cusick and Easton Cusick; great-grandchildren, Nillan Holman and Lyna Jordan; siblings, George (Linda) Cusick, Alan (Donna) Cusick, Alyce (Gerry) Smith and Tim (Rebeccah) Cusick; and many nieces, nephews and friends.
Tom was preceded in death by his grandson, Reed Blasius; and his parents, Earl and Stella Cusick.
A private service will take place at Tom and Audrey’s home on Thursday, March 21, with a public Celebration of Life gathering to follow from 2-4 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family has designated an account for donations to be given to Mayo Clinic Cancer Research in memory of Thomas Cusick. Donations can be made directly to Audrey through cash, check or Venmo (@Audrey-Cusick).
