With heavy hearts and countless treasured memories, we announce the passing of George Thomas Orosco, lovingly known as Tom, who passed away peacefully on May 31, 2026, at the age of 78.
Born on August 20, 1947, in Chanute, Kansas, Tom lived a life centered on faith, family, service, and the simple joys that make life meaningful. While he was often quiet by nature, those who knew him best knew that behind that quiet smile was a sharp wit, a kind heart, and a lifetime of stories waiting to be told.
Tom proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for 25 years. After retiring from military service, he continued his commitment to serving others by working for the Department of Defense for another 10 years. He believed in showing up, working hard, and doing things the right way.
Tom's days often followed a familiar routine. Mornings began with lifting weights while listening to his favorite oldies but goodies, followed by a 30 minute bike ride through the neighborhood. He kept his phone nearby, always hoping for a text from his daughter Anna or his son Chris. Even a simple "Hi Dad" could brighten his entire day.
After exercise came another favorite pastime: research. Tom never met a purchase he couldn't investigate. Whether he was comparing prices, reading reviews, checking the latest sports news, catching up on local happenings, checking the latest kansas obituaries, he approached everything thoroughly. Family members often joked that if Tom was researching something, he probably knew more about it than the people selling it.
He enjoyed fishing, walking Chris's dog, grilling on weekends, and spending time outdoors. His lawn was a source of pride, and dandelions were his sworn enemy. Many saturday afternoons were spent patrolling the yard in search of the next offender. If heaven has lawns, they're probably looking immaculate right about now.
Tom never needed fancy meals to be happy. He loved his beans and tortillas, and he often declared, "I could eat beans and torts every day." Anyone who knew him understood that this wasn't an exaggeration. Add a red popsicle, a sunny afternoon, or an occasional Modelo beer, and Tom was perfectly content.
One of Tom's greatest joys was sharing stories about his childhood, his brothers, sisters, cousins, lifelong friends, and the adventures they experienced together. The stories often involved a little mischief, a lot of laughter, and memories that grew better with every retelling. He especially loved talking about his mother and the special bond they shared throughout his life.
Above all else, Tom loved his family. His love wasn't always expressed through grand gestures or lengthy speeches. Instead, it showed in the everyday moments: checking in, sharing a laugh, or just simply being there.
Tom is survived by his devoted wife, Patti Grant Orosco; his daughter, Anna Orosco; his son, Christopher Orosco; his sisters, Cathy Root (Randy) and Cindy Riggs (Robert); his brothers, Tony Rosalis (Lana) and Steve Orosco; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph "Joe" Orosco and Antonia "Toni" Orosco, and his beloved sister, Mary Theresa Orosco.
Those who loved Tom will remember his quiet strength, his dedication to family, his endless research projects, his battle against dandelions, and his ability to find happiness in the simplest things. Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing that his love, laughter, and stories will continue to live on through all who knew him.
A Catholic Mass celebrating Tom's life will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church, 409 E. 8th Street, Eudora, Kansas 66025. Inurnment with Military Honors will immediately follow at Holy Family Catholic Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggest memorial contributions to the Haskell Catholic Campus Center. Donations may be given to Father Jordan at the church or mailed to 2301 Barker Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66046.
As we remember Tom, we can almost hear him reminding us to enjoy the sunshine, keep an eye out for dandelions, never pay full price without doing a little research first, answer your family's texts, and appreciate the simple comfort of beans and tortillas.
May he rest in God's eternal peace, and may his memory forever be a blessing.
