Russell “Tom” Trembath

Russell “Tom” Trembath, 95, a lifelong resident of Ely, died Wednesday, March 19, 2025 at the Ely-Bloomenson Hospital in Ely. He was born August 15, 1929 to John and Irene (Sundstrom) Trembath in Ely.

Tom graduated from Ely High School and completed a two-year degree at Ely Junior College. He proudly served his country with the U.S. Army. Tom married his first wife Marjorie Utecht on July 27, 1952 together they owned Trembath’s welding business for over 50 years. She was his bookkeeper and office manager during that time. Marge passed on January 30, 2020. Tom was well known for his great fabricating skills. He invented many items Throughout his lifetime, whether they were precision or a massive undertaking, he would create And design various pieces of machinery. Tom was a member of the Ely American Legion Post 248 for 70 years, receiving recognition for that feat. He was a pilot for over 30 years. Most of all, Tom loved spending time at his cabin up on the North Arm of Burntside Lake. He enjoyed traveling the country, taking bus tours, and going to England where he would research his ancestor’s beginnings. Tom married Arlene Childers on September 11, 2021. They enjoyed each other’s company and would spend their remaining time together until his passing on Wednesday.

He is survived by his wife, Arlene Trembath of Ely, and her daughters Shelly (Joe) Oxley, and Jean (Tim) O’Harris, Tom’s son Keith (Patty) Trembath of Ely, granddaughter, Kari (Jason) McNiff, of Coleraine; great-grandchildren, Brooke, Audrey, and Kellan; great-great-grandchildren Nolan and Karson, sister-in-law Donna Utecht, along with many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, 1st wife, Marjorie, and sister, Shirley Kopperud, brother­in law Butch Kopperud, brother-in-law Robert Utecht, and Tom’s favorite dog Buffy.

Funeral services for Tom will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 28, 2025 at the First Lutheran Church in Ely. The Rev. Dean Rudloff will officiate. Visitation one hour prior. Interment will be in the Ely Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to Kerntz Funeral Home of Ely.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Russell “Tom” Trembath, please visit our floral store.