Thomas J Kozel

LODI - Thomas J. Kozel, age 86 passed away on Sunday, April 14, 2013. He was born on July 28, 1926, in Lodi, the son of Ben and Bernice (Ireland) Kozel. After graduating from Lodi High School, Tom enlisted with the U.S. Army, serving overseas during World War ll. He married Jeanine Sebring on July 8, 1948, in Madison. Together they operated Tom and Jean's Lodi Shop-Rite Store which they ran until selling in 1988. He then worked with Waste Management and in 1996 earned 'Salesman of the Year' at the age of 70. Tom retired in 2004. He will be remembered for his light-hearted wit, his ability to live life to its fullest and share his gift of laughter with all he came in contact. He was an avid Packers and Badgers fan and enjoyed hunting and fishing. In addition to Jeanine, his wife of 64 years, survivors include his daughters, Vicki (Jim 'Bird') Bartholomew and Julie (Steven) Ginter; his son, Robert; grandchildren, Josh and Ryan (Rachel) Bartholomew and Tillie Ginter; his great-granddaughter, Ava; his sister, Lois June Moul and other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his brother and sister-in-law, Roger and Lois and his brother-in-law, Harold 'Curly' Moul. Funeral services will be held at HAMRE-GUNDERSON FUNERAL & CREMATION CARE, 157 S. Main St., Lodi at noon on Saturday, April 20, 2013, with the Rev. Michael Lee presiding. Burial will be in Mount Pleasant cemetery. Visitation will be on Saturday at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Cemetery: Burial will be in Mount Pleasant cemetery.