Thomas “Tom” Kennison, 83, of Orchard, passed away Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2020 at the Mitchell County Regional Health Center in Osage.

A private family graveside service will be held at the Howardville Cemetery near Floyd with Pastor Greg Robbins from the Gospel Lighthouse Church officiating.

Thomas “Tom” Dean Kennison, the son of Claude and Margaret (Vigdahl) Kennison, was born July 25, 1937 in Mason City, Iowa. He received his education in Mason City, country school near Floyd and graduated from Orchard High School. After graduation, Tom began doing bridge work throughout the state.

Tom was united in marriage to Barbara Lemons on March 23, 1958 in Colwell and the couple made their home in various locations as he continued working on bridges. They finally settled in Floyd County and about five years after their marriage, Tom began his over 50 year career as an ironworker. He also worked with his hands, tending to the land as a farmer.

Tom was a member of Ironworkers Union Local #89 and the Trappers Union. He enjoyed hunting/trapping coyote and lately loved smoking meat in his homemade smoker no matter what the season or weather outside.

Living family members include his wife of 62 years, Barbara; daughter, Tammy (Todd) Burke of Canaan, Maine; son-in-law, Dale (Dawn) Person of Burt; grandsons: Ryan (Abby) Person, Darin (Amanda) Person, Josiah (Crystal) Burke, Jude Burke and Ben Burke; granddaughters: Tiffany Burke (Sang Gyu Lee), Christa (Troy) Reynolds, Phoebe (Tyler) Philbrook, Joanna (Mike) Lovely and Nicole (Adam) Fisher; 19 great-grandchildren; brothers:  Philip Kennison and David Kennison; sister, Kathy (Bob) Barker; along with numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Melanie Person; brother, Gordon Kennison; and sister-in-law, Mary Jean (Lunn) Kennison.

Memorial contributions may be left to the discretion of the family.

Hauser Weishaar Funeral Home, (641) 228-2323, 1205 South Main Street, Charles City, Iowa 50616 is in charge of local arrangements. Online condolences may be left on the Tribute Wall for the family at www.hauserfh.com.