Age 73 of Inver Grove Heights
Passed away unexpectedly on August 21, 2022. Preceded in death by parents, Carl & Anna Engel; 7 siblings. Survived by loving wife of 32 years, Patty; son, Tom (Courtney); daughter, Alyssa (Nathan) Wise; grandsons, Thomas, Charlie, Chase & Warren; siblings, Arlene (Charlie) Kirk, Ron (Mary) Engel & Toni Engel; also many nieces, nephews & friends.
Tom was raised in St. Paul, Minnesota and was one of 12 siblings. Tom graduated from South St. Paul High School in 1967. Tom had different jobs throughout the years until in 1991 when he and his wife, Patty bought into the House of Coates, which he worked at and operated for 28 years.
Tom met his wife while working at Cenex in 1985. They welcomed their first child, Thomas in 1988. They were married on August 25th, 1990. In 1991, they had their second child, Alyssa. They spent the next 32 years happily married and building a wonderful life and family together. Big Tom was a family man; an incredible father and even better grandpa. Together Tom and Patty had four grandsons. Thomas (3), Charlie (3), Chase (1), and Warren (1). These four boys were the biggest blessings in Tom’s life. He was the best Papa to them and loved every minute he got with them. He loved to play, rock, and care for the kids. One of their favorite past times was going to see the animals down the road on his side by side.
Big Tom loved to be outside. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. One of the favorite times of the year for him was his deer opener up in Park Rapids, MN. The hunting trailer was started by his mom, and was a special place for his family where he and the boys have made many wonderful memories.
Tom loved to work in his yard. He especially enjoyed mowing his lawn and enjoying their deck and pool that he put so much work and love into.
Big Tom loved many and was loved by many. A man with the biggest heart, he was always willing to help someone in need or give to those who were wanting. He never wanted anything in return but friendship. He was the best kind of friend to have at your side, and he had many. He loved to spend time with his friends whether stopping in at random for visits, seeing them either at the House of Coates or at the Rosemount VFW, he was a very special person to so many.
Our family would like to thank everyone for the outpouring of love and support during this most difficult time. We will be forever grateful.
Memorial Service 11 AM Wednesday, August 31st, at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 7600 Cahill Ave, Inver Grove Heights. Visitation 9-11 AM prior to the service. Interment St. Agatha’s Cemetery, Vermillion. Celebration of life following at the House of Coates. Memorials preferred.