Thomas E. Kaluza

Thomas “Tom” Edward Kaluza

Age 81 of Circle Pines, MN passed away peacefully surrounded by family on July 25, 2023 after a courageous 12-month battle with cancer. 

Tom was born December 3, 1941 to Peter and Ida Kaluza in Browerville, MN. After graduating from Browerville high school, he attended St. Cloud State University and received his elementary education degree. He met Norma Van Beck and they were married on August 17, 1963, in Greenwald, MN. They built a home in Circle Pines, MN in 1969 and remained there until the time of Tom's death. Tom was a very active member of St. Joseph of the Lakes parish throughout his life.

Tom impacted hundreds of students in his 35-year teaching career at Centennial schools and was named to the school district's Hall of Fame in 2015 for his many contributions to the lives of students and the community. He loved spending time with family, especially enjoyed watching his nine grandchildren grow up, and cherished attending their activities. He loved being at the family cabin and fishing on Long Lake. His garden was also a source of pride and always shared vegetables with family and friends.

He had a passion for volunteering and spent countless hours in his retirement years helping the poor, hungry, and homeless. He volunteered regularly at Stepping Stone, Meals on Wheels, Loaves and Fishes, Sharing and Caring Hands, along with St. Joseph's of the Lakes Catholic Church.

Tom will be greatly missed by his loving wife of 59 years Norma. He is survived by his children, Laurie (Delroy) Nyren, Lisa (Greg) Aronson, Chris (Jessie), and John (Stacy); grandchildren, Cole (Alyssa), Brock, Carly, Raelyn, Riley, Jack, Drew, Julia, Erin; great granddaughter Madelyn; siblings, Richard, Ray (Linda), Maggie (Dave) Bushlack, Mary Kaluza-Riviere, and Anne (Rodney) Stowell.

He will be joining his father Peter; mother Ida; brothers Peter, Steve, Jake, and Bill in eternal rest. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30AM Tuesday, August 1 at ST. JOSEPH OF THE LAKES CATHOLIC, 171 Elm St., Lino Lakes, with burial and luncheon to follow. Visitation at MUELLER-BIES FUNERAL HOME-LINO LAKES, 7050 Lake Drive (County Hwy 23), from 4-8 PM Monday and at the church from 9:30-10:30 AM Tuesday.

The family would especially like to thank Dr. Jahagirdar, the wonderful Oncology Department, and all those at Regions Hospital and Health Partners Hospice who assisted with his courageous battle. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the donor's choice.