Carlsbad, New Mexico - Tom died on Oct 3rd, 2025 in Carlsbad, New Mexico. Tom was born in Northfield, Minnesota, on July 16, 1938, to Harold and Valdez (Mulligan), between brothers Victor (Vic) and Richard (Dick).

Tom's Northfield upbringing was marked by athletic achievement, as he hurled the shot put and held the line in football throughout high school and college. His 1957 state shot put record still stands strong, a remarkable feat given the towering athletes who have followed. Tom was a dual-sport competitor at the University of Minnesota and threw shot put at the University of Houston-Texas.

Tom met and married Eunice (Koester), a fellow Northfield native for a remarkable 57 year marriage. After earning his degree in Therapeutic Recreation from Minnesota State Mankato, their journey took them to New Jersey before settling in Mankato, where they raised their children, Andrew and Sarah. Tom dedicated his career to St. Peter State Hospital, forging bonds with coworkers he cherished as lifelong friends.

Tom's passion for sports endured throughout his life, whether he was playing, coaching, or cheering from the sidelines. He devoted countless hours to coaching youth football, baseball, track and field and Special Olympics. His love for sports inspired his own children to play throughout their youth and touched the lives of countless young athletes he coached.. A proud Bantam Baseball Hall of Fame inductee, Tom found joy in watching kids flourish, have fun, and grow through the lessons of the game.

Tom was a rare blend of athleticism and artistry. His creative spirit shone through in his paintings, stained glass and landscape designs. Together with Eunice, a talented decorator, they formed a harmonious partnership, each enhancing the other's sense of style and appreciation for beauty. Their relationship was a beautiful balance, with Eunice's gentle touch softening Tom's edges and his strength adding dimension to hers.

He appreciated so many of his dear neighbors, friends, and family. He never passed up an opportunity to have a beer with someone, talk smart, and have a laugh with those he cared about.

At the end of his life, Tom lived with his son Andrew, daughter-in-law Julie, and granddaughter Anna in New Mexico once he left Mankato following the death of his wife Eunice. It was a bittersweet time to leave the lifelong home he and his wife both loved, but a sweet trade for years he was able to spend with his immediate family he loved dearly.

Tom is survived by his children, Andrew (Julie and Anna Grace) Swanson of Carlsbad, NM, Sarah Swanson of St. Paul MN and is preceded in death by his wife Eunice (Koester), mother Valdez (Mulligan), father Harold and brothers Vic and Dick.