Thomas L. Kempel

Thomas Lorin Kempel, 69, of Barnesville, MN, passed away unexpectedly at home on Monday, September 19, 2016. Tom was born February 13, 1947, in Breckenridge, MN, to Solomon and Geraldine Evenson Kempel. He grew up and attended school in Stirum, ND. After graduating, he continued his education at Valley City State College. Tom taught English and Shakespeare in McVille, ND, for a time before moving to Fargo where he began his career with the City of Fargo. On September 5, 1992, Tom married Linda Porter in Colorado Springs, CO. Together they made their home in Fargo. Tom later retired after 34 years with the City of Fargo and in 2011, they moved to Barnesville, MN.

Tom enjoyed spending time outdoors, boating, riding motorcycle and was a proud member of the FM Crusaders. He liked joking around and good conversation. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time with his friends, but most of all loved being with family. He will be greatly missed.

Tom is survived by his wife, Linda; son, Chad Stefonowicz; daughter, Chandra Stefonowicz; step sons, Jamie Jenny Porter, Joey Melissa Sather Porter; step daughter, Lisa Jared Keller; grandchildren, Tori, Jessica, Jacob, Aubrie, Lilly, Taylor, Gavin, Kaleb, Tyler, Abby, Ella, Skylar and Ian; brothers, Tim Marie Kempel, Larry Kempel; sister, Marcia Chamberlain; nieces, Emily, Christina, Michelle, Janelle; and many extended family member and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; parents-in-law, William and Doris Hitchen; and brothers-in-law, Mike Chamberlain and Rick Born.

Tom was a wonderful man and we were blessed to have him in our lives.

“Let me live on the road and be a friend to man.”

Visitation will be Sunday, September 25, from 2:00 – 3:00 P.M., in Trinity Lutheran Church, Moorhead, MN.

Memorial Service will be Sunday, September 25, at 3:00 P.M., in Trinity Lutheran Church, Moorhead, MN.