It is with both sadness and gratitude that we announce the passing of Thomas Joseph Griffin, who left us on September 28, 2025, at the age of 80. Born on November 26, 1944, in Rochester, Minnesota, Tom was a beacon of warmth and friendliness in the lives of all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Tom spent his early years attending St. Francis and Lourdes High School, ultimately earning his Graduate Equivalence Degree. He devoted many years to serving the City of Rochester, where he formed lasting friendships. Tom proudly served in the Navy, embodying the spirit of dedication and commitment in everything he did.

In his personal life, Tom had a loving heart that shined brightly through his marriage to Kathy Kerkhoff and their cherished son, Nicholas. Though that chapter of his life ended in separation, his pride and love for Nick remained unwavering throughout his life. Tom met his partner, Ginger Sweeney, and they shared many years together until his death.

Tom was a man of many passions. He found joy in boating and pheasant hunting, and the thrill of skiing in the snow. He adored tending to his property, where he could revel in the peace and beauty of rural living. His love of the great outdoors was matched only by the joy he found in each shared moment with his grandsons, Lucas (10) and Beckett (7).

He is survived by his cherished son, Nicholas (Stephanie), his beloved grandsons, his sister Nancy Skanson, and brother Gordon (Karen) Griffin, along with his niece Amy and nephews Brian, Michael, and Peter. Tom was preceded in death by his dear parents, John and Grace Griffin, his brother Gregory Griffin, and his brother-in-law David Skanson.