On Monday, April 17, 2023, Thomas "Tom" Phillip Orlowski, was called home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Following a bone marrow transplant in October 2015, Tom began a valiant and courageous battle against the resulting graft vs host disease.

Tom is survived by his wife, Cheryl Ransom Orlowski; son, Todd Orlowski; daughter-in-law, Emilee Orlowski; sister, Kathy Smallwood; nephews, Christopher Smallwood (Sarah) and Matthew Ransom; nieces, Kelli (Quincey) Adams; Kara (Ted) Chesarek, and Whitney (Jamie) Seifert. He was also survived by great nieces and nephews, Aaron, Bear, Bauer, Silas, Myra, Bryce and Ella.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Kathleen and Elmer Orlowski; mother and father-in-law, Joyce and Clyde Ransom; brothers-in-law, Chuck Smallwood and Dave Ransom; and U.S. Marine nephew, William Smallwood.

Tom was born on May 21, 1944, in Lakewood, Colorado. He was a lifelong member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, where he attended school and was also confirmed. Tom was a 1962 graduate of Leavenworth Senior High School. He then attended Concordia Teachers' College, in Seward, Nebraska, receiving his Bachelor's Degree in 1966 and his Master of Education Degree in 1975.

As a distinguished elementary educator, Tom was a Lutheran school teacher for several years before serving 35 years in the Leavenworth Public School System. He initially met Cheryl, also an elementary teacher and the "love of his life," in August 1983. Both were members of the Teachers' Bowling League. Cheryl "caught his eye" after she bowled a 245, and apparently Tom wanted to be a permanent member of Cheryl's team, so they were married on August 4, 1984. Tiny son Todd, a preemie weighing only one pound and eight ounces, was born on March 11, 1986.

Tom, a gentle and mild-mannered man, inspired his family, a myriad of students, and all who knew him, by his "faith walk with Jesus." He was a beloved husband, father, son, brother and friend. Tom is finally at peace and remains forever in our hearts.

A Christian memorial service will be held as 12:00 on Monday, April 24, 2023, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Leavenworth. Visitation will be held from 10:00 to noon prior to the service. Tom will be laid to rest at the Sunset Memory Garden in Leavenworth.

Memorial contributions may be given to St. Paul Lutheran Praise Team, St. Paul Lutheran School or American Cancer Society.