Thomas C. “The Cat” Kelly

He was born Oct. 29, 1931, in Faithorn, son of the late Jim and Winifred (Hayes) Kelly. Tom was the fourth of seven boys and one precious sister. He left the area for Milwaukee to find work after leaving the farm. Tom worked at many different jobs before owning Kelly’s Bar, a very popular establishment. It’s been told he was so popular that he could have been mayor of Milwaukee.

After selling his bar, he joined the Carpenters Union and moved to La Crosse, working construction all over Wisconsin. Tom moved back to Norway in the early 1980s and worked at the Quinnesec paper mill, where he retired.

Tom was a loyal supporter of the Norway Vulcan Athletics, earning the Fan of the Year award. Tom and his friend Willard could be seen at most events. He would also be found at Oak Crest Golf Course, where he was an active member. The highlight in Tom’s life was starring in a hunting movie called “Tundra.” It was filmed in Alaska and also at the Kelly Hunting Camp in Faithorn.

Survivors include one son, Michael (Mary); one grandson, Jonathan (Ashley); and three great-grandchildren, Liam, Aidan, and Braylynn; one brother, Charles Kelly; one sister, Coleen Strahl; a very special niece, Patty Faull; two sisters-in-law, Mary Jo Kelly and Lorraine Kelly; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Thomas was preceded in death by five brothers, Jim (Kay), Bruce (Delores), Warren, Jerrold, and Bob (Donna).

Due to COVID-19, a private service for family and close friends, will be held at the Faithorn cemetery this coming spring.

You may leave a condolence or tribute for Thomas’ family online at www.JacobsFuneralHomes.com.

The family has chosen Jacobs Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Iron Mountain, to honor Thomas’ legacy of life.