Thomas "Tom" G. Richter

Thomas Gerard “Tom” Richter, age 68 of Perham, MN, died Sunday, January 1, 2023 peacefully at his home.

Tom was born on December 14, 1954 in Perham to Gerard and Hildegard (Kneisel) Richter. He attended and graduated from Perham High School. While in school, Tom was considered an exceptional athlete, succeeding in wrestling and football.

In 1978, Tom was united in marriage to Shirlee Jacobson at Calvary Lutheran Church in Perham. Together they would have three sons, Chad, Jake, and Tyler.

Tom will be remembered for being strong, supportive, and motivating. He was a man of few words but when he did speak, people listened. He encouraged his family to do their best and was an inspiration, even while his health declined. Tom also had a very giving demeanor. He would help those in need whether it was getting a dock out or making sure a family had enough wood to stay warm. He believed in balance, work hard play hard. He and his wife Shirlee always knew how to have a good time, whether out at the lake or hosting friends and family at home. He enjoyed ice fishing, weight-lifting, and loved old cars and classic rock music. He wanted to provide the best he could for his wife and children. He was very proud of being able to start his own business with his brother Rich, Richter’s Dock & Lift. Tom loved spending time with his family and friends, especially his boys and grandchildren. He will be missed by not only his family, but many friends and clients.

He is survived by his wife, Shirlee Richter; sons, Chad Richter, Jake (Monica) Richter, and Tyler (Mary) Richter; grandchildren, Makena, Peyton, Eli, Owen, and Warren; step-grandchildren, Tristan, Emily, and Ella; brothers, Dennis (Maureen) Richter, Steve (Connie) Richter, and Richard (Tammy) Richter; many nieces, nephews, other relatives, friends; and his entire Dock Crew family. Tom is preceded in death by his parents, Gerard and Hildegard Richter.

Visitation will be at Schoeneberger Funeral and Cremation Service in Perham on Sunday, January 8, 2023 from 4:00-6:00 p.m., with a Prayer Service at 5:30 p.m. Visitation will resume at Calvary Lutheran Church in Perham at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, January 9, followed by the Memorial Service at 11:00 a.m. Interment at Calvary Memorial Cemetery near Perham.

Schoeneberger Funeral & Cremation Service, Perham, MN (218) 346-5175 www.schoenebergerfh.com