Thomas “Tom” Henry Osier

Tom was born and raised in Bessemer, Michigan, the son of Joseph and Alvere (Anderson) Osier, He graduated from A.D. Johnston Bessemer High School with the Class of 1963. It was during his high school years, in the tenth grade, that he met the love of his life, Kathryn Stefaniak, The two married on August 19, 1967.

Following high school, Tom attended Northern Michigan University majoring in Sociology and Psychology. He was a member of the Delta Omega Nu Fraternity. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Social Work in 1967. He began his career in public service in 1967 with the Alger­Marquette Community Action Board and later worked for the Michigan Department of Social Services in Marquette. In 1970 Tom then accepted a position with the Michigan Department of Corrections at the Marquette Branch Prison. He served faithfully for 30 years and through dedication and steady leadership, he advanced to the role of Deputy Warden before his retirement in the year 2000.

Tom lived an active life rich with interests, many friendships, and curiosity. He was an avid outdoorsman, a hunter, a gun collector and a proud member of the Cedar Savages four-wheeling group. He loved raising dogs, walking in the woods, and being outdoors in every season. A life long car enthusiast, Tom enjoyed working on anything with an engine and had a remarkable mechanical intuition. In his later years, he was known for snow-plowing much of his neighborhood, always happy to help.

Tom cherished his daily walks around the Superior Dome and looked forward to morning coffee with “the guys.” Mischievous, funny, kind, helpful, and exceptionally generous, he believed that most things in life were made better when shared over a good meal.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Kathryn; his children Thomas J. (Cristine) Osier of Marquette, Ann (Todd) Madely of Clay, NY, and Michael (Erika) Osier of Traunik; and his grandchildren Owen, William, and Megan. He is also survived by nieces Stacy, Allison, and Laurie; nephews Ted and Chris; and special friends Dave and Karen Johnson.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Marquette Regional History Center, 145 West Spring Street, Marquette, MI 49855.

Services for Tom will take place in the spring at Messiah Lutheran Church, with details to be announced. The Canale-Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the family, and condolences may be expressed online at canalefuneral.com