Journal entry by wendy everth —
Casey, Thomas J. Thomas J., age 82, of Spring Park, passed away very peacefully surrounded by his family on August 31, 2020. Tom is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Shari; children, Tom (Lori), Barb (Jim) McCutcheon, Wendy (Harry) Everth; grandchildren, Lindsay (Dorian), Mikaela, Thomas James "TJ", Zoe, Gracie, Madison, Madeline (Kyle), Kristi, Stephanie; Great-grandchildren, Anna, Joseph, Lily, Bella, John, Teagan; sister, Midge (Howie) Cook; brother, Don (Susan). Preceded in death by parents Claude and Libby Lou and sister Claudette Linwick. Thomas James was born on February 21, 1938 in Minneapolis. He attended Washburn High School and went on to graduate from Minnehaha Academy; during which time he met Shari, the love of his life. Tom and Shari were married on February 8th, 1958. He then enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he served four years as an air traffic controller on the aircraft carrier Corral Sea. Tom's lifelong passion for flying was fueled by his service. After the Navy, Tom and Shari raised their family in Bloomington, before eventually landing themselves permanently on Lake Minnetonka. Tom's kind and selfless heart and his passions are what truly defined him. In his 30's he turned his yearning to fly into a reality by obtaining his pilot's license. He enjoyed flying family and friends all around the country for many years. Tom was also devoted to charity work through the Shriners Club. He enjoyed all their fundraising events; his favorites being the pancake breakfasts, the parades, and the Circus. Tom's service to other organizations included serving as the President of both the Madeline Island Golf and Yacht Clubs where he and Shari have owned a cabin for 33 years. Tom was noteworthy for making lifelong friends. He reveled in playing golf for decades with friends from Washburn and Minnehaha Academy, and having friends with whom he shared his love of flying, downhill skiing, boating, fishing, and golfing. Tom's greatest attribute was his big heart. He led his family as a non-judgmental listener who would lend a hand in any way possiblewilling to do anything for them. This often-included driving around the country with Shari to watch their kids and grandkids as they competed in sports and pursued their various interests. Tom was a loving caretaker for Shari up until his last days. Tom recognized all life's blessings come from God. Tom was always thankful for his full and amazing life. He is missed by many. Celebration of Life Saturday, September 19th Visitation 10:00AM to 11:00, Masonic Service 11:00 AM to 11:15, Memorial Service 11:15AM to 12:00 War Bird Missing Man Memorial Fly Bye 12:05 PM Flying Cloud Airport Hanger #F1, 15221 Charleston Rd., Eden Prairie, MN 55347 Masks and social distancing will be required. All Covid precautions will be taken. Masks will be provided. Memorial Contributions may be made to: Tree of Hope, 10110 161st St. W., Lakeville, MN 55044 or Minnehaha Academy, 3100 W. River Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN 55406 Washburn-McReavy.comEdina Chapel 952-920-3996
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