Thomas "Tom" Sylvan Hilber

life story

Thomas Sylvan Hilber (81) passed away on Monday March 23, 2026 at his home in South St. Paul, MN.

Tom was born on August 20, 1944, in Fargo, North Dakota. He was the fourth of twelve children born to Edward (Jack) and Clarissa (Lucier) Hilber. He is preceded in death by his parents and three sisters, Mary Jo, Teresa and Patricia.

Survived by wife of 32 years, Cheryl (Orpen), Son; Sylvan, Daughter; Tara, Brothers; Joe, Tony, Bernie and Rick, Sisters; Anne, Eva, Peggy and Jodi. Many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Tom worked hard his whole life. He was an altar boy, had a paper route, worked at his uncle’s gas station and caddied for his dad. As an adult he was a teacher at several schools where he also coached wrestling, created sets for the drama club, and yearbook advisor. Tom also worked at a metal shop, a salesman at a print shop, a clerk for Jobs and Training for the state of Minnesota, a group home support staff, and Amazon package handler.

Tom played football in high school. In 1963, he graduated from Shanley High School in Fargo and then attended Moorhead State University where he received his degree in art.

Music was an important part of Tom’s entire life. In the 60’s, Tom accompanied Father Richard Sinner playing guitar during the civil rights movement uniting people in faith, compassion and hope for a more just world. He played guitar beautifully, wrote songs, and was a beautiful singer. Tom was a grateful member of AA for almost 48 years. Due to AA he saw the need for a venue for sober musicians, creating and organizing the “Annual Dry Bones Music Festival” for 13 years. He also organized “Sober Jam” (open mic night) at various venues for many years. He was also part of the Christ Recovery Center music ministry for twenty-five years. He played the banjo every Wednesday night at the singalong, where everyone still remembers him as Banjo Tom. He was a faithful volunteer at the Union Gospel Mission by playing guitar regularly for Sunday night chapel services.

Tom was passionate about many things including history. He enjoyed visiting cemeteries as well as indigenous American burial sites.

Tom and Cheryl shared their home as a Sober House with over 55 people impacting many lives.

Tom was very active in politics. He regularly attended conventions and caucuses. He ran for several offices including school board member, city council and mayor of St. Paul. He campaigned for many candidates throughout his life, canvassing neighborhoods and knocking on doors, and many parades. Those who knew Tom would share many passionate discussions with him regarding politics (and many other things he was passionate about).

Tom loved the outdoors and found peace through nature. He sailed the Great Lakes from New York to MN and took many trips to the Boundary waters. He also enjoyed cliff/rock climbing, canoeing and camping.

Tom was a member of Bethesda Lutheran Church where a Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday April 11, 2026 with visitation at 10 am and service at 11 am. Bethesda Lutheran Church, 2855 47th Street E, Inver Grove Heights, MN

memorial service

Celebration of Life

April 11, 2026

Bethesda Lutheran Church 2855 47th St E, Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076, USA

Visitation starting at 10:00AM.

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Crescent Tide Cremation Services