Benda, Thomas J. 71, of Bloomington, passed away Jan. 7, 2008 in Palm Springs, CA, surrounded by his family. Survived by wife, Sandra; children, Terri Dunn, Tom (Lori), Joe (Sherry) and Michelle McCarty (Glen); grandchildren, Katie, Geoffrey, Brandon, Anthony, Alisha, Tyler, Mari, Josh and Kylie; brother, Dan. Preceded in death by parents; brothers, Dick and Charlie. Memorial Mass 6:30 PM Thursday, Jan. 24 at St. Edward's Catholic Church, 9401 Nesbitt Ave., Bloomington, with visitation one hour prior. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to Smile Train or Special Olympics.
This obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.
Dear Sandy and family....Many prayers going your way for you all during this time of losing Tom.....We will remember his hands in his pockets jiggling his change and wondering where to eat next....always loved his opinions and jokes and letter writing online to brighten our day....God bless you all..Love Betty and Bruce
Betty and Bruce Sachs
January 27, 2008 | New Richmond, WI
Dear Sandy and Family, I'm so sorry to hear of Tom's passing. He and my father Ev Walker had become really good friends the last few years. He was at my dad's funeral two Octobers ago and I had a chance to talk with him. It's funny how small of a world this is. We lived down the street from you guys in Bloomington on Southmore Drive and now I live in Lakeville and find out my daughters go to school with your grandchildren Josh and Mari. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Brad, Tria, Jamie, Jessie Walker
January 26, 2008 | Lakeville, MN
sandy, God bless you and your family. Tom was a big part of my childhood and teen years. I have many good memories. My condolences.
sue seyfert (karnstedt)
January 25, 2008 | Prior Lake, MN
Dearest Sandy,
We were sorry to hear that Tom has passed away. He was a wonderful friend to so many.
With our heartfelt sympathy to you and your family.
Jerry and Judy Redfield
January 23, 2008 | Shakopee, MN
Dear Sandy and all of Tom's family:
I got to know Tom more in the past decade when he visited the Sachs' in Florida and we would have some good and lively conversations. But I really learned about his life, loves and heartfelt thoughts through his wonderful e-mail journaling of trips, holidays, family gatherings and even remodeling projects. He loved those times so much and could articulate, in detail, so that you thought you were along for the ride.
Always ready to eat out, he was a...
Patty Sachs Meshbesher
January 22, 2008 | Minneapolis, MN
Sandy,
Just received a call from a fellow "retreatant" who saw the obituary. My prayers are with you and your family as they have been with Tom for several months. I will miss him so much -- I have a picture of JoAnn, Tom and I at the last retreat she attended before her death on the bulletin board above my computer. His sense of humor, his kindness, his love of life will continue to be with us all.
I'll see you at the memorial.
Nila Varner
January 22, 2008 | Minnetonka, MN
Sandy, I am so sorry to hear of Tom's passing. His great sense of humor and love for his family and friends will be remembered by all. My prayers, love and sympathy to you and your family.
Dianne Kelly Weir
January 22, 2008 | Poinciana, FL
Mrs. Benda,
I was very sad to find out about Mr. Benda -- he always made me smile and laugh, but most of all, he gave me perspective on some of the challenges/difficulties I had with growing up. The old neighborhood will have a missing link.
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time for you and your family.
Nancy (Noble) Starr
January 22, 2008 | Colorado Springs, CO
Sandy,
I'm so sorry to hear about Tom's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!
Bob Knox
January 21, 2008 | Rancho Cucamonga, CA
