Tom Vugrinec
Thomas Henry Vugrinec, 67, passed away on Jan. 27, 2025.
He was born on Sep. 26, 1957, in Phelps, WI, the son of Thomas Victor and Henrietta Margaret Vugrinec.
Tom grew up in Land O’ Lakes, WI and graduated from Eagle River High School in 1975.
Tom married his high school sweetheart, Danette Caron on May 19, 1979. They had three children together.
He and his family ventured out to Wyoming in the 80’s to pursue mining. Although they later divorced, he remained a devoted father to his children.
Tom was a hard worker his whole life. Most of his adult career was spent at Black Butte Coal, where he took on many different positions. He also spent time as a butcher and in the oilfield.
Tom’s greatest gift was being an outstanding father and grandfather. After suffering the devastating loss of his son, he poured all his spare time and energy into his daughters and grandkids lives. He was present for their births, most of their firsts, sporting events, milestones, and graduations. He was proud of all of them and loved teaching them skills but especially creating memories with and for them that would last a lifetime. From vehicle maintenance, tying shoes, ties, or fishing knots, playing cards, backing up trailers, and butchering our own wild game. The Cribbage Master counted fast and loved stealing your points when you missed them.
Tom lived life to the fullest. He was an avid outdoorsman, creating fishing buddies with his kids and grandkids. His hobbies included camping, hunting, fishing, boating, skiing, and traveling. He shared all his happy places with his kids and grandkids.
He wanted to make sure that these memories and skills would last for generations. His one-on-one time and holiday gatherings with his family were the most outstanding times for us all.
Tom never had a favorite, each kid held a special place to him, including all the bonus kids that became family throughout the years.
Forever a kid at heart, he never hesitated to play games with his grandkids. Goalie for floor hockey, blocking shots in basketball, and taking down the older boys in wrestling matches. The eyes and the laughs always said it all. Always live and enjoy your best life. He always said, ‘kids make life worth living.’
His hugs, grunts, and side eye disapprovals will definitely be missed. Even though his face didn’t always show it, those hazel eyes were always smiling. Tom wouldn’t want anyone to be sad. He always said, ‘death is a part of life, don’t be sad or mad when it’s my time. Always show that beautiful smile and remember, I love you and I’ll always be with you.’
Survivors include his two daughters, Cassandra Vugrinec, Michelle (Kris) Kroese of Rock Springs, WY; four grandchildren, Justice Vugrinec, Blaine Richards, Aspen Allred, and Wesley Allred of Rock Springs, WY; Mother, Henrietta Vugrinec of Pinedale, WY; sister, Laurel (Gail) Ensign of Rock Springs, WY; brother, Jim (Joni) Vugrinec of Coeur d’Alene, ID; four nephews; six nieces; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends that he considered family.
He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Victor Vugrinec; son, Thomas Victor Howard Vugrinec; and sister, Valerie Meronk; both maternal and paternal grandparents.
Cremation has already taken place. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
PAID OBITUARY
