Eugene Thomas Wesolowski
Eugene Thomas Wesolowski – “Ski”
Beloved husband, father, son, brother, neighbor, co-worker, lifelong patron of Harry’s and quiet devoted Catholic passed peacefully in his home in Santa Barbara on September 3.
Born in Chicago IL on April 15, 1923 to Thomas and Helen, Ski was first introduced to Santa Barbara by Uncle Sam in 1941. During his entire WWII enlistment he was fortunate to be stationed at the Marine base that is now home to the airport and UCSB.
Ski’s wife Florence fell in love with Santa Barbara during WWII and in 1948, she convinced him to take a “vacation” back to Santa Barbara. Leaving Chicago with a car, two suitcases and a dog they never looked back. Working various odd jobs Ski and Florence did whatever they could to make their dream of building a home and raising a family a reality. Tom, Carol and Rob were blessed to grow up in Santa Barbara enjoying many road trip vacations, Sunday dinners, BBQ’s and pool time with the neighborhood kids.
Ski worked for GTE for 37 years well known among his peers and the town for his positive, humorous and kind personality. He was a member of San Roque parish for over 50 years, the Knights of Columbus for over 62 years, and served on many local organizations with his time, energy, infections laugh, and love of life.
Ski was married to the love of his life Florence for a fortunate 63 years. They shared many wonderful memories and traveled aboard (Europe – especially Poland, Taiwan, and Mexico). They also kept sacred their Friday night date nights, enjoying many of Santa Barbara’s local restaurants followed by dancing.
Ski’s adult kids recall waiting over an hour at church or Harry’s while he connected with friends and acquaintances. He was larger than life and the kind of man some of us watched growing up with “Father Knows Best” or “Leave It to Beaver”.
Ski considered himself a very lucky man and acknowledged this fact almost daily. Ski is preceded in death by his loving wife Florence and sister Lillian.
Ski, Pops, Daddy-O, American Dad will be deeply missed and always loved by his family Tom (Kathy), Carol (Carone), and Rob (Michele).
The family wishes to thank the doctors and nurses from DASH (Doctors Assisting Seniors at Home) and the wonderful caregivers; Alannah, Alyssa and Noelle.
Donations in remembrance of Ski can be made to Transition House.
A rosary will be held at 6:00pm Friday Sept. 12 at McDermott Crockett and a funeral mass will be conducted at San Roque at 10:00am followed by entombment at Calvary Cemetery, Saturday Sept. 13