Thomas Earl Obituary

Thomas Earl

Thomas Harmon Earl, age 65, succumbed to cancer peacefully and on his own terms in the comfort of his home, Sunday, August 3, 2008.

Born August 9, 1942 in Decatur, IL to Edward and Gretchen Earl, Tom graduated from Menomonie High School in 1960, and then from the University of Minnesota’s School of Mortuary Science. Under the early mentorship of the Don Goodrich family, Tom spent a long career as a funeral director in Colfax and Menomonie. After retirement, he developed his own successful business as a Process Server.

Tom found exceptional joy and love in his life with Janelle during their relatively brief but wonderful time together over the past 13 years. Tom also possessed a great sense of community and appreciation of people. He perfected the art of conversation, finding connections among and making friends with people of all ages from all walks of life. This art was happily practiced during lengthy Coffee Buddy breaks, among his many friends from church and work, and with his family. His grandchildren and others especially loved his engaging, unedited sense of humor and many practical jokes. Tom was particularly proud of his leadership in the Stephen Ministry at Lake Street Methodist Church, feeling fulfilled in his role as compassionate listener and comforter.
Tom is preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Gretel Earl, and foster parents, Marian and Earl Hagen. He is survived by his wife and best friend, Janelle, and daughters Marcia Earl (Dan Krogseng) of Roberts, WI and Vickie (Jamie) Goulette of Stillwater, MN. Tom was the proud grandfather of Max Berger and Trent Prince, and step-grandchildren, Isaiah, Mariah and Sam Krogseng. Also surviving are siblings Susan (Michael) Adamek of South Bend, IN; Kathy (Richard) Larson of Marinette, WI; Joe (Judy) Olsen of Independence, IA; Emilie (Loren) Anderson of Eau Claire, WI; and foster sister Ann (Bob) Falk of Burnsville, MN. In addition he is survived by Pat and John Earl of Madison, WI, who, as aunt and uncle, provided unfailing support, love and guidance throughout his life. He is also survived by brother-in-law Rocky Heike (Ronny Larson) of Mondovi and sister-in-law June (Chip) Reny of Colorado Springs, CO. He is also dearly remembered by nieces, nephews, cousins, former son-in-law Todd Berger, and many wonderful friends. A celebration of Tom’s life will be held on what would have been his 66th birthday, Saturday, August 9, 2008 at Lake Street Methodist Church with Pastor Graham West officiating. Services will be at 11:00 a.m. with visitation one hour prior to the service. Tom will also be remembered during a visitation at Lake Street Methodist Church on Friday, August 8 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Burial will take place in the Forest Hill Cemetery in Eau Claire. The family wishes to thank friends, the oncology department at Luther-Midelfort, Dr. James Roberts, Dr. Basu, the staff of Northwest Wisconsin Homecare, the Lake Street Stephen Ministry team, Pastor Graham N. West, and Pastor Cathy L. Hamblin. The family suggests that memorials be directed to Lake Street Methodist Church: music ministry or Stephen Ministry, the American Cancer Society, or The Healing Place in Eau Claire. Friends may offer condolences online at www.fullerspeckien.com. Fuller-Speckien- Hulke Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.