Thomas L. Norkooli

Tom was born Dec. 31, 1954, in Escanaba, Mich., the son of Arne and Veronica “Honey” (Huff) Norkooli.

A 1973 graduate of Rock High School, Tom continued his education first at Bay de Noc Community College and received his bachelor of science, Magna Cum Laude from Northern Michigan University in 1977. In 1993, not only did he earn his master of arts degree but was also awarded the Outstanding Graduate Award in the College of Arts and Sciences from Northern Michigan University.

Tom started his 41-year long career in insurance working for several companies as an insurance adjuster and claims manager before venturing out on his own to form his own company and become and independent adjuster. He was a hard-working man, and far exceeded a 40-hour work week his entire career.

In his spare time, Tom could be found working and enjoying his land in Rock, which was originally his childhood home. He always enjoyed a hot sauna or a having a quick cup of coffee with one of the local townspeople; but first and most importantly he was dedicated to his daughters and grandchildren.

Tom would say, “he was the jack of all trades, master of none,” but that did not stop people from picking his brain or seeking his advice. He helped many people in his lifetime and will be greatly missed.

Tom is survived by: three daughters, Jennifer (Shawn) Norkooli-Starnes of Gladstone, Mich., Janell Ansell of Escanaba, Mich., and Lauren Norkooli of Green Bay, Wis.; one sister, Bonnie Norkooli of Gladstone, Mich.; two half sisters, Linda Maki of Rock, Mich., and Judy Koski of Gwinn, Mich., and one half brother, Michael (Gus) Mattila of Rock; three grandchildren, MacKenzie, Rianna, and Xavier.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Jerry Norkooli and half-brother Jim Minor.

Family will receive friends Friday, Oct. 18, from 4 until 6 p.m. at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the Norkooli Family. Please visit www.skradskifuneralhomes.com where you can leave a message of condolence to the family.