Obituary of Tom Colsen

Frank Thomas Colsen

(known to his friends and family as "Tom")

1929 - 2024

Tom was born to Frank and Ida Colsen in Grafton, North Dakota.

He passed away peacefully with all his family by his side at sunset, April 11, 2024.

Tom is survived by his loving wife Addie (Adeline) of 70 years, married in 1954. Their life together was a true love story.

They moved to Santa Barbara in 1959. They started their beautiful family of two daughters Kathi Carlson (son-in-law Andy), Kimberly Connolly (son-in-law Richard)

Three GrandChildren, Danielle Wooden (grand-son-in-law Jaymz), Bowin Connolly, and Alexandra Carlson and one Great GrandDaughter, Adeline Wooden.

Tom proudly served in the United States Navy during the Korean War from 1948-1952. Tom left a mark in history for his revolutionary inventions.  To name a few, the "Single Hose Diving Lung" and the "Anti-Theft System" which he sold to Ford Motor Company and  other car manufacturers. When you hear a horn sounding in a parking lot, you can thank Tom. He owned and operated a hi-tech manufacturing business, "Lucero Industries Inc."  Tom was a true entrepreneur. 

Tom joined the Santa Barbara Jaycee's in the early 60's, of which he was involved in the early development of the Santa Barbara Childs Estate which became the Santa Barbara Zoo. He has been a member of the Elks Lodge for 30 years.

Tom loved to travel, he and Addie traveled the world. Tom always believed in investing in Real Estate. He developed a vacation Lake house for family and friends to gather and create memories. 

Tom was a man of integrity, always honest, kind, and loved people. When he shook your hand, he looked you in the eye and gave you a solid handshake.

Anyone who knew Tom, has heard him say, "It Takes a Heap of Living to Make a Life" and that is what he did.

A mass for Tom will be held at the San Roque Church in Santa Barbara, April 25th at 10:30.  

A Graveside Military Salute at the Calvary Cemetery at 11:30. 

Celebration of Tom's Life at the La Cumbre Country Club at 12:00 noon.