Thomas A. Mrenna, 86, Brookings, died June 25, 2002, at a local care facility of natural causes.

He was born July 24, 1915, in Braddock, Pa., to Stephen and Pauline Mrenna. He was raised and educated in Columbus, Ohio.

Mr. Mrenna was a teenager during the Great Depression and left school early to help support the family by working in his father's cabinet shop.

He joined the war effort during World War II as the first draftee called up from Columbus. He was awarded bronze stars for the Battle of New Guinea and the Campaign of Luzon. After being injured in Luzon, he received a Purple Heart.

Following his military service, Mr. Mrenna worked for the U.S. Postal Service in Cleveland, Ohio, and Los Angeles.

After 15 years with the Postal Service, he became a real estate agent in Los Angeles and cared for his ill mother.

After her death, he moved to San Diego, Calif., where he lived until moving to Brookings in 1995.

He was an avid golfer and former member of the Torrey Pines Country Club in La Jolla. He loved to dance and was a former member of the Elks Club. He also belonged to the VFW in California.

Survivors are brother, Stephen Mrenna of Pennsylvania; a half-brother and sister-in-law, John and Darlene Ivan of Brookings; and niece, Sharon Candelario of Fremont, Calif.

Preceding him in death were his parents; and sisters, Del Beck and Pauline Coughlin.

A graveside service is planned today (June 29) at Ward Memorial Cemetery. Father Edmund K. Ryan will officiate.

Arrangements are under the direction of Redwood Memorial Chapel.