Thomas "Tom" J. Galica

Thomas “Tom” J. Galica, 76 of Oshkosh, passed away on Wednesday, November 9, 2022. He was born on September 21, 1946 to the late John and Betty (O’Connor) Galica in Oshkosh.

Tom proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1965 to 1971. A year after being set up on a blind date with the love of his life, Marcia Lyness, the couple wed on July 3, 1971, their marriage was blessed with two daughters. Tom worked at various places before retiring as a tool and die maker from Rockwell International after 44 years.

Tom was a faithful member of St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church. To our community, Tom was not only a friendly face and a friend to talk to; he was a humble man who served others before serving himself. Tom was active in the American Legion Post 70, Vietnam Veterans of America chapter 437 and the United Honor Veterans Guard. He volunteered at various places throughout the community but had a passion for the Day By Day Warming Shelter, and EAA.

He was a devoted husband and loving father who cherished his wife and daughters. He enjoyed traveling, and spending time with family and friends. As a natural social butterfly, he had a way about him that would light up any room he entered; people were drawn to him. He was a faithful friend who was loved by many.

He is lovingly survived by his bride of 51 years, Marcia Galica; daughters: Heidi (Shawn) Christian and Buffi (Jason) Kremers; siblings: Sandee (friend, Richard Mohr) Boe, James Galica, Dan (Roxanne) Galica; sisters-in-law: Sandy Galica, Judy (Don) Schultz, Darlene Lyness. He is further survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Tom was preceded in death by his brother, Bob Galica, mother-and father-in law, Ruby and Raymond Lyness, and brother-in-law, Kenneth Lyness.

A visitation for Tom will be held at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church, 1100 E. Murdock Ave. on Tuesday, November 15, 2022 from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM. It will resume on Wednesday, November 16, 2022 at the church from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM. A memorial service with Military Honors will follow at 11:00 AM with Rev. Karen Jewell officiating.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established.

The Galica family would like to extend their deep appreciation to Pastor Karen Jewell and the amazing support system of family and friends during this difficult time. Your love, compassion and prayers have been felt tenfold.