Tom Adamek
March 27, 1945 - December 12, 2024
Thomas W. Adamek, age 79, of Belle Plaine, died unexpectedly at his home on Thursday, December 12, 2024. Tom was born on March 27, 1945, in New Prague, to Alvin F. and Eleanor F. (Tikalsky) Adamek. He graduated from New Prague High School. He met the woman who would become his wife on a blind date, set up by his friend and classmate. Mary B. Heinz and Tom were married on August 7, 1970, at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church in Bloomington. For Tom, cash-crop farming and beef cattle were his life. He was proud of his beef cattle and had a playful spirit with them, named all his bulls and could even be found playing with the cattle. Most of his beef was sold to individual customers. He also had a love of fireworks and was instrumental in helping RES Specialty Systems finding a site for their plant. He belonged to PGI (Pyrotechnic Guild International) and attended many conventions, enjoying side trips along the way. He and Mary and son, Tom, enjoyed their travels, especially frequent trips to Florida.
Tom was naturally outgoing and enjoyed being around, going out with, and helping friends and neighbors. He had an easy, playful nature, which was challenged only by the health problems that plagued him in his more recent years. He enjoyed fishing and for a time in his life, he belonged to the Sportsman’s Club. He especially loved tinkering in his shop, where the radio was always on, tuned in to old-time music. His wife and son were the cornerstones of his life but he also had a very special place for the many cats, who found their way into his heart.
Tom is survived by his wife, Mary of Belle Plaine; son, Tom of Belle Plaine; sisters-in-law, Pat (Jim) Heinz-Pribyl of Louisville, CO, Cheri Heinz of New Brighton, Nancy (Mark) Bina of New Brighton, Jenny Vanek of Ellendale, MN; many close cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents.
A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, December 19, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Bruzek Funeral Home with MaryCarol Wolf officiating. Visitation will take place two hours prior to the service, starting at 9:00 AM. Lunch will follow the service at the KC Hall.
Dear Mary and Tom (Tommy to me), I was just thinking about you and decided to look you up when I came across Tom’s obituary. I’m so sorry for your loss. I remember Tom so fondly. He was a caring and dedicated father. I would love to visit with you sometime. I live in Lake Elmo now, but would make the drive for a cup of coffee. Very sincerely, Deb Wall
you and Tommy are in my thoughts and prayers
So sorry,Mary. You are in my prayers. May you find comfort in memories and love of close friends
Our sympathy to Mary and Tom, on the loss of Big Tom. Tom was big in stature but had the gentlest soul. He will be missed by all who knew him. May he rest in peace.
Mary, Tom, and Family, Our deepest sympathies to all of you. Tom’s parents were neighbors to our farm on the south,Jim & Marcy Tupy. We are also distantly related through the Tupy’s. If you have the blue Tupy family tree book that Ben Bartusek published, Tom is on page 38 and my family is on page 43. Wishing you peace, comfort, and hope. Keeping you and yours in our thoughts and prayers. Jean (Tupy) & Ed Keogh, and Marcy Tupy
A very cool Brother in law. I’ll miss you a lot Tom!
Yes another great cousin gone too soon. Prayers and love to all.