Thomas H. Kosewic passed away peacefully at home on May 7, 2013, after a short courageous battle with cancer. Tom was born July 15, 1942, in Cleveland, Ohio. He was a former member of the Army Reserve and attended the University of Dayton where he played football. He married the love of his life and steadfast companion, Diane Gladek on Aug. 3, 1963. Their 50th wedding anniversary would have been this year. They moved to Hayden in August 1972.

Tom was a skilled general contractor. During his whole life he was an avid gun enthusiast, actively participating in regional skeet and trap shooting activities as well as hunting upland game birds with his friends and beloved and devoted English Pointer, Bonnie. Bonnie passed away earlier this year.

Tom was a recognized expert in restoring Winchester Model 12 shotguns. In addition to being a participant in the shooting sports, Tom was an avid master fisherman. During fishing season he could be found fishing on Hayden Lake two or three times a day — everyday, weather permitting. Tom was also an accomplished “chef,” frequently preparing fish fries for his many friends and family.

He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph and his mother, Bertha. He is survived by his wife, Diane; their daughter, Sandy Swan and her husband, Dean; two grandchildren, Christy and Derick; and his brother, Joseph Kosewic.

Tom was a friend to anyone and everyone and never turned down a person in need. He was an honest person with a good heart. Tom was the epitome of a good man. He will be greatly missed by his many friends and his family. We were privileged to have him in our lives.

The family wishes to thank the medical professionals, doctors and nurses who cared for Tom and also the dedicated staff of Hospice of North Idaho.

A funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 13, 2013, at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 625 E. Haycraft Ave., Coeur d’Alene, with Yates Funeral Home, Coeur d’Alene, in care of the arrangements. Burial will be at Coeur d’Alene Memorial Gardens with a short reception following at the church. The family prefers memorial donations to Kootenai County Humane Society or Hospice of North Idaho. You may visit Tom’s memorial and sign his online guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.