Tom Westby, 67, beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother and friend, passed away in his home on April 24, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories.
Tom was born in La Crosse, Wis., on March 29, 1957, to Harley and Joycelyn (Benson) Westby. He grew up in Houston, Minn., where he spent his formative years building a trophy-winning hot rod. In 1980, fate intervened when he met the love of his life, Tammy Steele from Albert Lea, Minn., on a blind date in Winona, Minn., just a week before her college graduation. Two years later, in 1982, they exchanged vows and embarked on a journey filled with love and adventure. Settling in Rochester, Minn., they established a home that became the heart of countless cherished memories.
In 1986, Tom and Tammy welcomed their son Derek into the world, ushering in a new chapter of joy and fulfillment. He was so very proud of his son Derek and his adoring daughter-in-law Amanda that joined the family in 2014. Professionally, Tom’s path was as diverse as his passions. From his humble beginnings on a tool truck with Matco Tools, to his tenure in industrial distribution, and their dinner boat and motor yacht rental company, he exemplified dedication and excellence. Eventually, he ascended to an executive role at Albers Mechanical Contractors in St. Paul, Minn., a commercial kitchen and HVAC company, where his leadership inspired all who knew him.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Tom was a man of many passions. In his free time, he poured his heart into his custom fire table business, creating pieces that brought warmth and beauty to countless patios. Whether he was restoring cars, building rotating and upside down drum sets for the band “Chameleon,” navigating the waters of the Mississippi River for 23 years on their houseboat, or embracing the serenity of nature through camping, Tom approached life with a zest for adventure.
Yet, perhaps Tom’s greatest joy came from his role as papa. Spending time with grandchildren Cooper and Aluna filled his heart with boundless happiness, and his love for them knew no bounds. Additionally, Tom found solace and fulfillment in crafting metal art, surrounded by friends, and savoring life’s simple pleasures.
Tom is survived by his devoted and loving wife Tammy, son Derek, daughter-in-law Amanda (Preston), grandchildren Cooper and Aluna, mother Joycelyn Westby, brother Steve (Holly) Westby, sister Shari (Fred) Wuensch, sister and brother-in-law Barb (Steele) and Jim Erickson, brother-in-law Rick Tischer, uncle and aunt Doug and Barb Benson, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents Christian and Sarah Westby, and Jess and Evelyn Benson; father Harley Westby, mother and father-in- law Robert and Gladee Steele, grandchildren Hadley and Holden Westby, sister-in-law Pamela (Steele) Tischer, and many aunts and uncles.
Although Tom has departed this world, his spirit lives on in the hearts of all who knew him. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering love will continue to inspire and uplift those who were fortunate enough to call him family or friend. As we mourn his loss, let us also celebrate the remarkable life of a man who touched so many with his warmth and compassion. Tom’s legacy will endure as a testament to the power of love and the beauty of a life well-lived.
A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Friday, May 10, 2024, in the River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home in Rochester, Minn. with a celebration of life happy hour to follow. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.
Online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com.