Thomas S. Stich was born December 29, 1942, in Stephen, MN to Leo and Julia (Knoll) Stich. 

After graduating high school (1960), Tom worked on the family farm until enlisting in the Navy in 1961, serving as an aviation electronic technician. 

In 1965, Tom began his printing career at the Grand Forks Herald, where he was attending the University of North Dakota. Tom moved to Denver, Colorado in 1968, working at the Catholic Register and attending the Typographical Union School in Colorado Springs. 

Tom and Bonita (Balstad) were united in marriage on October 17, 1970, in Minneapolis. They made their home in Denver for two years before returning to Brooklyn Park, MN. Tom had a successful career in graphic arts and retired from General Mills in 2002. 

Soon after retirement, Tom and Bonnie moved to Big Lake, MN. Tom had many talents and hobbies and was known for his ability to fix anything, from cars to computers. He enjoyed woodworking and took pride in his home and family. He was very proud of his restored ’59 Ford Retractable. In recent years he really enjoyed time spent at White Birch Camping Resort near Breezy Point. 

He was a member of Saron Lutheran Church and Resurrection Lutheran Church for many years, and an active volunteer in many areas. Tom will always be remembered as a loving, caring husband, father, grandpa, and brother. His family was his true pride and joy. 

Tom is survived by his wife of 53 years, Bonnie; son Brett (Paulina) Stich; daughter Kristin (Dillon) Cords; grandchildren Kemry, Ava, Tatum, Paisley, Hawken, and Tyler; brothers Don (Diane), and Philip (Mary); sisters Theresa (Eugene) Kuznia, and Marilyn Tokarczyk; brother-in-law Tennis (Lori) Balstad; and many nieces and nephews. 

Tom is preceded in death by his parents; and granddaughter Rylie. 

Visitation will be held from 9:30AM-11:00AM with memorial service at 11:00AM on Saturday, July 20, 2024 at the Peterson-Grimsmo Funeral Chapel, 250 Broadway Street East, Monticello. 763-295-2918.  Private interment Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Luncheon to follow at Style Catering in Big Lake, MN.  (www.peterson-grimsmochapel.com)