Thomas Kozisek

Thomas “Tom” Kozisek, 64, of Lake Park, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, held in the deep love of his family and the eternal comfort of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Though his earthly journey has ended, the impact of his life—and the faith with which he lived it—will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A celebration of life service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Clear Lake Open Bible Church, 509 S. 17th St., with Pastor Adam Henaman officiating.  Tom's family encourages everyone to wear bright colors or Huskers gear at his service.  

A memorial visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m., Friday, December 12 at Clear Lake Open Bible Church. Cataldo Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Tom was born on August 25, 1961, in Storm Lake, Iowa, to William and JoAnn (Bowman) Kozisek. He grew up surrounded by the values that shaped him into the man he would become: humility, loyalty, kindness, and a genuine love for people. He attended St. Mary’s School, where he formed lasting friendships, developed an early love of music, and first displayed the gentle, dependable nature that would define him throughout his life.

A Life of Service

After graduating, Tom felt a calling—to serve, protect, and make a difference. He attended Western Iowa Tech and earned a degree in Police Science/Technology then began what would become a remarkable 35-year career in law enforcement. Tom served the communities of Newell, Emmetsburg and Bloomfield, IA and Columbus, MS, before he and his wife, Bon, moved to Garner, Iowa in 1995, where he served as Chief of Police for 21 years—a role that fit him perfectly. Tom was a D.A.R.E. Instructor, a member of the I.L.E.A., Child Death Review Team, Iowa Sex Crimes Investigators Association, and many more.

Tom wasn’t the kind of officer who led with authority; he led with respect. With quiet strength and unwavering integrity, he served the people of Garner with fairness, compassion, and a true sense of responsibility. His commitment to his community earned him the trust and admiration of countless individuals over the years. After retiring from Law Enforcement, Tom continued to serve his community, at ACE Hardware in Garner and Bomgaars in Spirit Lake, where he made many new friends.

Passions That Filled His Life

While Tom lived a life of service, he also lived a life filled with joy and passion. One of his greatest joys was being a devoted Nebraska Cornhusker fan. To say he was a fan would be an understatement—Tom loved the Huskers. He read every article, followed every podcast, and made yearly trips to Lincoln to cheer on his beloved team. His Iowa friends—especially the Hawkeye fans—never missed a chance to rib him, and he never missed a chance to smile and give it back in return.

Music was another thread woven through every chapter of Tom’s life. From singing in the St. Mary’s choir to playing tuba in the high school band, music was part of his identity. His passion continued into adulthood, where he played bass guitar in a local Garner band for many years, forming friendships and memories along the way. Whether playing, singing, or simply listening, music brought Tom joy, comfort, and connection.

A Faith That Defined Him

The greatest transformation in Tom’s life came when he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and had a personal relationship with Him. His faith took root deeply and quickly, shaping every part of his life from that moment forward. Tom didn’t just believe—he lived his faith.

He became an active member of his church, playing in the church band, serving wherever he was needed, and openly sharing the joy of his salvation. His love for the Lord was evident in his conversations, his actions, and the peace that radiated from him.

When Tom received his diagnosis, his faith never wavered. He never questioned God, never asked “Why me?”, and never let fear overcome his trust. He faced his illness with quiet strength, calmness, and complete surrender to God’s plan. His steadfast faith in the midst of struggle was a powerful testimony to everyone around him.

A Family Man Through and Through

Tom was preceded in death by his father, William; his mother, JoAnn; his sister, Patricia; and his baby sister, Lori Lee. He leaves behind the love of his life and wife of almost 34 years – Bon; his son Andy (Ryan Heffernan) Kozisek of Pensacola, FLA, daughter Regi (Sam ) Van Lenning of Fostoria, IA and son Ryley (Mara) Kozisek of Ft Dodge, IA and his treasured grandchildren: Knoxlynn, who brought him immeasurable joy, Karter, Kaitlyn and Kylie who he loved immensely, and was so proud to be a great grandpa to Kaliyah. Tom was also a beloved brother to Doug ( Junko) Kozisek, Karla Scholl, and Janet Mins. His extended family, nieces, nephews, and many dear friends will forever carry his memory in their hearts. Tom cherished his family deeply. He supported them wholeheartedly and showed them—every single day—what quiet strength, kindness, and unwavering love look like.

A Legacy That Will Endure

Those who knew Tom will remember a man who greeted the world with humility, kindness, and a steady sense of purpose. They will remember his gentle humor, his loyalty, his passions, and his deep faith. Tom touched countless lives—sometimes through his service, sometimes through his music, and often through simple acts of love and compassion.

He will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and Papa, loyal brother, trusted friend, and a faithful servant of the Lord. His legacy is not only in the years he lived but in the many lives he touched and the love he gave so freely.

Though Tom will be deeply missed, his spirit remains alive in the memories he leaves behind and in the assurance that he now rests in the arms of his Savior—whole, restored, and at peace.