THOMAS JOHN GRINSELL

Thomas John Grinsell, 78, of 928 Third St., International Falls, Mn., passed away Dec. 5, 2002 at the Falls Memorial Hospital.
Tom was born Aug. 15, 1924 in Fort Frances, Ont., and was raised here.
In 1942, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served in the Pacific Theatre during the war and then in Kodiak, Alaska on the USS Sarsi until his discharge in 1949.
Tom returned to Fort Frances and met his bride, Norma DePiero, and then settled in International Falls. Tom went to work for Mando and worked there on the painting crew until his retirement.
On June 21, 1952, Tom and Norma were the first couple to be married in the new St. Mary’s Church in Fort France. They raised six children, and his two great-grandchildren were his pride and joy.
He was an avid reader, who also enjoyed playing horseshoes, curling, feeding the birds and squirrels, gardening, and knot work. He was a member of St. Thomas Church, the Knights of Columbus, and Tec and Marriage Encounter.
He was predeceased by his parents; two sisters; infant daughter, Colleen; and special friend, Charlie.
Tom is survived by his sons, Randy (Karene) Grinsell of Paulsbo, Wa., Tim (Patti) Grinsell of International Falls Mn., Ken (Jennifer) Grinsell of St. Cloud Mn., and Donald (Gina) Grinsell of Helena, Mt.; daughter, Tracy (Gerald) Brady of Crosby, N.D., and Tina (John) Stackpole of Maplewood, Mn.; 17 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
He also is survived by brothers, William (Teresa) Grinsell of Texas, Robert (Georgie) Grinsell of Oregon, and Paul (Lupe) of Oregon; and sisters, Joan Wagner of Oklahoma, and Hosanna (Terry) Thomas of Washington.
No visitation is being held. Friends and family may call at the house on Monday, Dec. 9, 2002 from 6-9 p.m.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday Dec. 10, 2002 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Thomas Catholic Church in International Falls. Rev. Fr. Thomas Meyer O.M.I. will officiate, with internment in Fort Frances.