Thomas Andrew Pothen

Thomas Andrew Pothen, age 88, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Mary Pothen, and his brother, Harvey (Elaine) Pothen.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Margaret Mary, with whom he shared 67 wonderful years of marriage filled with faith, devotion, and deep love. He leaves behind his seven children: Tom (Sharon), Pat (Kelly), Julie (Tom) Arons, Tim (Monica), Terry (Jennifer), Molly (Hans), and Beth (Joe) Crosby. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to 15 grandchildren: Andrew, Audrey, Nolan (Yuri), Natalie, Jacqueline (Ryan) Baniecke, Elizabeth, Lauren (Austin) Reiling, Prachi, Kathleen, Shannon, Nora, Ben, Clara, Frannie, and Will; and a joyful great-grandfather to Leo and Eleanor. He is also survived by his brother Bill (Lori), along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Tom was a lifelong member of the Carpenters Union and dedicated 42 years of hard work and craftsmanship to McGough Construction. He took immense pride in his work and in building not only structures, but a life centered on faith, family, and integrity. He never stood still for long, if something was broken, he fixed it; if someone needed help, he showed up. Whether it was a home project, a neighbor's repair, or a family member in need, Tom was always working with his hands and giving of his time.

Although he built a successful career in construction, Tom was raised on a farm in Roseville, Minnesota, and though he never had a farm of his own, that love of the land stayed with him throughout his life. He found peace and happiness tending to his garden, nurturing the soil, and watching things grow. As a teenager, he loved cars, and he also enjoyed learning about history and sharing stories from the past. In 1990, he built a cherished family cabin, a place filled with laughter, traditions, and countless memories that his family continues to treasure today.

He was a devoted caregiver until his final days, especially to Margaret Mary, caring for her with a patience that was truly beyond this world. In their family, Margaret Mary was lovingly, and very accurately, known as "The Boss," and she certainly acted the part. Tom embraced that role with a smile, steady devotion, and the quiet understanding that being married to "The Boss" for 67 years was his greatest accomplishment and joy.

Tom was a devout Catholic who faithfully attended daily Mass at Saint Joseph Catholic Church in West St. Paul. His faith was the foundation of his life and guided him in his roles as husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

We would like to express our deepest gratitude to the compassionate staff at United Hospital, the Allina Health Hospice team, and The Willows of Ramsey Hill for their exceptional care, kindness, and support during his final days.

Visitation Wednesday, February 18, 2026, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. at Klecatsky & Sons West Chapel. One-hour visitation will be held at Saint Joseph Catholic Church prior to the 11:00 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial on Thursday, February 19, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Habitat for Humanity or a charity dear to your heart.

Tom's steady hands, generous heart, unwavering faith, and extraordinary patience leave a lasting legacy in the lives of all who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.