Thomas Gregory Joseph Lavelle

Thomas G.J. Lavelle

Thomas "Tom" Lavelle, age 86, passed away peacefully after a short illness on Saturday, December 20, 2025.

Born on September 2, 1939, to William Francis and Rose Marie Lavelle, Tom grew up in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He attended DeLaSalle Catholic High School and went on to earn his undergraduate degree from the University of Minnesota. Following his graduation, he proudly served his country as a member of the United States Marine Corps.

While attending boot camp in North Carolina, Tom met the love of his life, Mary, a fellow Minnesotan. The two were married during his military service at Camp Pendelton, beginning a devoted partnership that would span more than six decades. After Tom's honorable discharge in 1964, the couple returned to Minneapolis, where they built their life and family.

Tom pursued graduate studies at the University of Minnesota School of Social Work, where he also taught classes. Upon completing his degree, he began a lifelong career with Hennepin County, ultimately leading the Juvenile Justice system for several decades. Driven by a deep commitment to public service, Tom also earned his law degree from William Mitchell College of Law in Saint Paul and passed the Minnesota Bar Exam, allowing him to serve as a Hennepin County Prosecutor later in his career. Even after retiring in 2008, Tom continued to give back, serving for another ten years as a court-appointed examiner in guardianship and conservatorship proceedings.

Tom was a true gentleman-known for his kind heart, sharp intellect, and even sharper wit. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of service through his professional work and volunteerism, including his involvement with the Veterans Administration and the Knights of Columbus. Never one to sit still, Tom loved traveling the world with Mary, spending time with family and friends, and dancing the night away with his wife at Minnesota Valley Country Club. An avid card player, he especially enjoyed bridge and was always ready for a game of cribbage. A devout Catholic, Tom was active in both St. Patrick's and St. Edward's parishes.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Mary; his son, Mark (Sally); his daughter, Ann Marie; grandchildren Zoey Lavelle (Brigit), Maren Lavelle (Matt Steiner), and Maya MacGibbon (Tyler Storlie); great-grandchildren Charlotte and Declan Lavelle; his brother Brian (Ruth); his sister Shelly (Jesse); and many cherished nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers, David and Marty (Sue Rheingans), and his sister, Maryanne Noble (Jack).

A visitation will be held on January 16 at 10:00 a.m. at the Church of St. Edward (Bloomington, MN), followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Thomas Lavelle to the VA Voluntary Service at the Minneapolis VA Health Care System.