Thomas A. Stake

Thomas A. Stake, 66, of St. Louis Park passed away on Monday, June 8, 2020 at Cedars at St. Louis Park, A Villa Center.

            Thomas Alan Stake was born on March 9, 1954 to Jim and Lois (Avelsgaard) Stake in Minneapolis, MN. He joined his sister Diane and later welcomed two more sisters, Karin, and Julie. 

            Tom attended Hale Elementary School, Ramsey Jr. High and graduated from Washburn High School in 1972.

            Tom was gifted with so many abilities, and growing up in a family where he was the only boy, his athletic and musical talents really shone through. He was always involved in sports. He was the co-captain of the Washburn varsity basketball team, and on the varsity football team, but his true passion was playing his trumpet, which he continued to do all his life. Playing his trumpet brought him so much joy, and brought joy to many others.

            In his early 20s, Tom began to slip into what would be a life-long struggle with mental illness. In spite of that struggle, he always had a contentment with his life and a drive to live out his purpose.  He was kind, giving and had a deep faith in his Savior, Jesus Christ.

            He loved his family, and we are so grateful that our last family gathering was a wedding, where Tom was out on the dance floor in his wheelchair, joining in the celebration.

            He was loved, and his family will deeply miss him.

            Tom was preceded in death by his parents.  He is survived by his sisters Diane (Neil) Johnson of Minnetonka, Karin (Dr. Dean) Kaihoi of Minnetonka, Julie (Rev. Scott) Peterson of Burnsville, uncle Roger (Barbara) Avelsgaard, as well as nieces, nephews other relatives and friends.

The family will be having a Private Graveside Service at Cambridge Union Cemetery.  

In Lieu of Flowers or Planting a Memorial Tree - Memorials are preferred to the Salvation Army.

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