Thomas Lee Schwerzler

A private Christian service for the immediate family of Tom Schwerzler, age 59, of Rochester, will be held on Friday, September 11, 2020. A walk-through visitation will take place Thursday, September 10 from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Mahn Family Funeral Homes in Rochester. Social distancing and mask requirements will be observed. Burial will follow the service at Oakwood Cemetery in Rochester.

Thomas Lee Schwerzler died on September 6, 2020, at the age of 59 due to a car accident. He was born to Leon and Shirley (Kranz) Schwerzler on February 1, 1961 in Morgan, MN.

Being the youngest of the family, much of Tom’s early adventures around town consisted of his own entertainment. Playing catch off the wall of the nearby school building, or enjoying pick up sports with neighborhood friends, he was often looking to emulate the athletic background set forth by his father Leon. He was tasked to grow up quickly as the man of the house when his father had a tragic heart attack following Tom’s 19th birthday.

Tom went on to Southwest State University for college, where he would graduate in 1983. There he competed on the gridiron and met his bride to be, Arlene Bakker. They were married on April 13, 1985 and traveled often in their early years. Arlene would finish her schooling at Bemidji State University, and then move to Kansas, before eventually settling in Winona, MN.

Prior to his work history ending, he once again enjoyed the best of both worlds doing bookkeeping for a home health care company in which he could bring his dog, Barry, every day. He found substantial joy in living for his children, making sure they always had rides to games and events, as well as managing the daily household chores.

Tom was a giver, and when he didn’t know how to give of himself, he gave of his time and emotions. Struggling with mental illness throughout his later years, he never let that get in the way of how he served his wife Arlene, or his children. He constantly sought out ways to do more for others, and often the results surpassed even extravagance.

As a Christian, Tom knew what he expected from himself, and instilled the same principles in his family. Attending church with his wife, and children, was among the highlights of his week. He served diligently during his children’s time at Hope Lutheran High School, and was always involved as a coach, leader, or chaperone in many activities.

Passion was the perfect definition for Tom, as it encapsulated all that he was. Whether in his love towards his wife and family, the favor for his dogs, the fire directed towards his latest collection, or the enjoyment Jeff Gordon provided on the track; all of it was defined by passion. It is by those feelings that he will be remembered by all who loved him.

Tom leaves behind his wife, Arlene, son Ted (Nicky) of Andover and children: Finnley and Linnea; daughter Amanda (Blake) Koebke of Utica and children: Myles and Rose; sister Barb (Bob) King of Phoenix, AZ; niece Kimberly Bluhm; mother in-law Audrey Bakker;  sisters and brothers-in-law Pat and Anita Fletcher of Wapiti, WY; Gregg and Becky Bakker of Washburn, WI; Al and Angela Pool of Milroy; Dean and Alice Vroman of Milroy; Linda Bakker of Balaton; and Scott and Amy Hunt of McHenry, IL as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. His dog Daisy passed away by his side. He was preceded by his parents; stepfather Gerald Moll; father-in-law George Bakker; brother-in-law Gordon Bakker as well as many aunts and uncles. His dog, Barry, also will be waiting for him. Live stream video available at : https://www.youtube.com/c/RLCFamilyofBelievers