Olaw Thomsen

Racine – Mr. Olaw "Tom" Thomsen, 90, passed away at his home on Sunday, April 19, 2014. Olaw was born in Denmark on October 19, 1923 to Ludvig Thomsen and Dagny (nee: Pedersen) Thomsen. At a young age, he traveled with his mother, Dagny, and his sister and brother to join his father, Ludvig, who was working to establish a home for his family in America. Olaw and his brother, Peter sold newspapers in Racine to help support the family. Serving in the army during World War II, he traveled to Africa, Italy, France, Germany and Austria. This confirmed his belief in having his own guardian angel. He then became a carpenter by trade, building his home in Wind Point solely by himself. Olaw was a member of Emmaus Lutheran Church for 76 years. He worked for Racine Unified Schools and was Trustee for Local 91 for 30 years. Olaw married Shirley Thomsen in 1986, who predeceased him on September 19, 1991. Other activities Olaw enjoyed include; 10 years as an officer on the Senior Golf League, a Lifeline volunteer for 10 years, and traveling around the dance floor at Interfaith Singles for 20 years. Olaw would like to say "thank you" to all his family and good friends that he has had over the years. All the hunting, fishing and canoeing adventures, bowling, Packer games, card playing and philosophizing were important components of his life. Olaw is survived by his children; Deb (Bernie) Vash and John (Sarah) Adamson, Jr, grandchildren; Paul (Francesca) Vash, Jennifer Meyer, (Anthony Schneider), Samantha Adamson and Michael Adamson, great-grandchildren; Jonah, Desmond, Charlie and Daniel. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Lucile, and brothers-in-law, Ralph Rayner and Jerry Jorgensen. Olaw was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley, his parents, his brother, Peter and his two sisters; Esther and Urna. Services for Olaw will be held on Sunday, April 27, 2014 at Wilson Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 11:30 am until the time of service at 1:00 pm. Pastor Mary Janz will be officiating. Interment will take place at West Lawn Memorial Park on Tuesday April 29, 2014 at 10:00 am. Please meet at the entrance of the cemetery. Condolences may be made at www.wilsonfuneralhomeracine.com. Wilson Funeral Home 1212 Lathrop Avenue 262-634-3361

Olaw Thomsen

October 19, 1923 - April 19, 2014