Thomas J Schmolke

life story

Skol!

Thomas John Schmolke , 89, passed away on Thursday, January 18th, 2024 at home in Coon Rapids, MN. Tom was born on November 30th, 1934 at the family home in Buckman, MN, the 11th child of John and Pauline (Beka) Schmolke of Buckman. He graduated from Little Falls High School in 1952. He married Dena Prince of Minneapolis, MN on July 24th, 1954 and they had nine children - Connie Kouzes (George), Cheryl Ayres (Kris), Tim (Julie), Ted (Mary), Tony (Amanda), Tom, Terry, Carla Habeck (Rick) and Colleen Erickson (Carl). Tom and Dena lived in Minneapolis, moving to Blaine, MN in 1963. Tom worked for 39 years for Factory Motor Parts, at their headquarters in Eagan, MN. Tom was a loving “Grampa” to 22 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren. He loved working on cars, following the local sports teams (big MN Twins and Vikings fan!), and he especially loved family get-togethers. He was always happy to see brothers and sisters, in-laws, nieces and nephews, and his children, grand-children and great-grandchildren. He is survived by all nine of his children, four of his sisters and brothers, and a very large extended family. His children will be hosting a “Celebration of Life” party in the near future – details to follow. Cards may be sent to Schmolke Family, PO Box 2007, Stillwater, MN 55082. Tom would like any memorials given to the MN Twins Community Fund.