Kische, Tom

Thomas Mathew Kische was born to Walter & Norma Kische February 13, 1941, in New London, Wisconsin. He died September 15, 2010, at his home in Lake Shastina, when he lost his battle with Multiple System Atrophy (MSA)/Shy Drager Syndrome (SDS). Tom was a painter for forty years; the last fifteen were with his wife, Verdell, as his partner and crew. Before his illness, his passion was hiking the mountains and RVing with Verdell. He just had to see what was around the next bend in the trail, or turn in the road. They hiked into about sixty lakes a year. They climbed Mt. Shasta, Mt. Whitney and most of the local mountains, always with his dogs by his side. Tom lived the last six and-a-half years in Lake Shastina. He was a great man, who loved his wife and family. He was so very proud of each of them. His family, dogs and his mountains made him complete. He will be missed and remembered by so many. Tom is survived by his wife, Verdell Kische, and former wife, Irene; sister, Sue Juarez of Virginia; brother, Charles (& Elaine) Kische of Yreka. Surviving children are Karrie (& John) Glines of Santa Maria; Brian (& Nanette) Kische of Yreka, Steve Kische of Pioneer, CA. Kim (& Clay) Smith of Bend, OR, Kevin (& Michelle) Martin of Durham, CA. Tom is also survived by eleven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, along with numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Walter Kische (1987) and his mother, Norma Kische (2010). A graveside service was held Monday, September 20 at 12:30 pm at Edgewood Cemetery. A memorial service was held at Lake Shastina Club House, 5925 country Club Drive, Lake Shastina at 1:30 pm. All are invited to share in this celebration of Tom’s life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to your local Humane Society.