Tom Steven "Steve" Karow

Tom Steven “Steve” Karow, age 79 of Oshkosh, passed away at his home on Wednesday, October 4, 2023. He was born in Oshkosh on February 15, 1944 to the late Stanley and Frances (Selwitschka) Karow. Steve was united in marriage to Sharon Gustavus on May 15, 1965 at St. Mary Catholic Church and together raised two children.

Steve worked as a tool maker at Rockwell International, where he retired after 30 years. He then worked at Gollnick Machine. Steve served as a Town of Oshkosh volunteer fireman for 42 years.

Steve was an avid outdoorsman. He taught hunter safety and was a life member of the Otter Street Fishing Club. Steve was a founder of the summer walleye tournament, and Director of Sturgeons For Tomorrow-Northern Chapter. He was a talented sturgeon spear maker who was proud to know many sturgeon spearers were successful using the spears he crafted.

Steve is survived by his wife, Sharon Karow; children, Ted (Holly) Karow and Michelle Karow(Dave Sattler); grandchildren, Brandon and Jacob Ristow, Travis (Selina) and Katelyn Karow; great-grandchildren, Genson and Amina Karow; cousins, Bill Monteith, Fred Monteith, Kathleen Monteith Omori, COL (R) MaryAnn Monteith, Sandy (Randy) Parsons; brother-in-law, Joseph Gustavus; sister-in-law, Betty Gustavus; God child, Stephanie Gustavus

In addition to his parents, Steve was preceded in death by his brother, John Karow, cousins, Robert and Susan Monteith as well as sister-in-law, Debbie Schneider.

Per Steve’s wishes, a private Mass was held for family.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Town of Oshkosh Fire Department, new firetruck fund.