Thomas G. Harrer

Thomas G. Harrer, age 68, of Forest Lake, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on September 26, 1956, in Lincoln, Nebraska, Thomas was the son of Carl and Barbara (Ball) Harrer. At a young age, his family moved to Minneapolis and later settled in Forest Lake, where he graduated from Forest Lake High School with the Class of 1974.

Following high school, Thomas began a long career at Kempf Paper, where he worked as a semi-truck driver delivering bulk paper. A free spirit at heart, Thomas had a way of making everyone feel welcome and valued. His warmth, humor, and genuine interest in others left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

He cherished time spent around the campfire, swapping stories and listening intently, remembering even the smallest details of those he cared about. His love for music, camping, and building model cars brought him joy, and his adventurous spirit extended into his passion for cooking—especially when it came to testing out every "As Seen on TV" kitchen gadget he could find.

Thomas was also the family’s go-to butcher, having taken classes earlier in life, and he became a trusted hand in processing deer for family and friends. So much so, in fact, that he had to replace a garage beam worn down from years of use.

Above all, Thomas was a devoted father and grandfather. He supported his children and grandchildren in all their pursuits, finding true happiness in the time he spent with them. After retiring, he fulfilled a lifelong dream by purchasing his teenage dream car—a 1966 Nova, fondly named "Orange Crush."

Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Barbara. He will be deeply missed by his children, Laura Harrer (Jerred Bathurst) and Brandon (Erica) Harrer Sr.; his beloved grandchildren, Karson, Tristin, Haley, Gavin, Carter, Brandon Jr., and Arianna; his siblings, Susan (Gordy) Skorseth and Scott (Becky Hendrickson) Harrer; his former spouse and dear friend, Jodi Hartman; as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, family members, and friends.

A celebration of Thomas’s life will be held at a later date. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.