Thomas Stork

Together we say farewell to our beloved husband, father, brother and friend. Thomas Stork passed away at his rural Carroll home on April 29, 2026, after confronting cancer with extraordinary strength. He was 78 years old. Tom’s family will host a celebration of life gathering on Sunday May 31, beginning with military honors at 3:00pm at St. Bernard’s Cemetery in Breda. Visits and greetings will follow from 3:30-4:30pm at old Zeke’s in Breda, with tributes of remembrance at 4:30pm at the Breda Legion. Guests are asked to enter through the east entrance of the Legion. Funeral arrangements are under the care of the Sharp Funeral Home in Carroll. Online condolences may be left for Tom’s family at www.sharpfuneral.com. Tom was born January 7, 1948, the fifth of seventeen children to Mathias and Mary Ann (Grabner) Stork. Raised on a farm west of Breda, he learned early the values of hard work, resilience and integrity. These qualities shaped every part of his life. After graduating from St. Bernard High School in Breda in 1966, Tom attended Nettleton Business College in Sioux City for one year before being drafted into the United States Army. He served 18 months, including 15 months in Vietnam. Upon returning home he farmed and trucked for several years before pursuing higher education, earning his bachelor’s degree from Tarkio College in Missouri in 1976. Tom taught math and social studies at St. Lawrence School in Carroll from 1976-1978, where he also coached junior high sports and became a trusted mentor for many students. In 1979 his career path shifted when he became a business partner with his brother Bill, operating Zeke’s Place in Breda for ten years. In 1990 he transitioned into catering with Lidderdale County Store and continued until he retired in 2018. Tom met his future wife Mary Jean Lewman on a blind date, and they were married in 1980 in an outdoor ceremony at Dolliver State Park. Their daughter Rachel joined the family in 1983 and together they built a life centered on love of family, nature and community. On their acreage they created a garden sanctuary abundant with birds, trees and flowers. Tom’s life was rich with experiences and adventure. He joined MJ and Rachel in many travels, including ziplining in New Zealand - much to everyone’s surprise! He loved exploring abroad and enjoyed beautiful woodland hikes near home. Tom embraced bicycling, riding RAGBRAI many times as well as trails in other states. He was often seen on the Sauk Trail quietly keeping pace with MJ’s endurance training. Tom enjoyed all sports, especially basketball. He was a loyal Cyclone, Hawkeye and Celtics fan. A particularly cherished tradition was his ‘Beantown Brothers’ group who trekked annually to Boston for games. He also valued time spent with his golf and bowling buddies. Above all, Tom was a kind and steady presence. He was patient, thoughtful and generous. He consistently put others first, often noticing a need and quietly stepping in to help without seeking recognition. Tom is survived by his wife Mary Jean Lewman-Stork of Carroll and daughter Rachel of Chicago, Illinois. His sisters: Phyllis Davis (Larry), Susan Benedict (Robert), Margaret Gross (Patrick), Mary Eickman (Lynn), Michele Stork, Sandra Hackerson (Ron); his brothers: Alan Stork (LuJean), Robert Stork (MaryLou), Donald Stork (Marsha), Bill Stork (Pat), Gordon Stork (Carol), Matt Stork Jr. (Teri), Henry Stork (Amy); sister-in-law: Michelle Stork; Brother-in-law Norman Lewman (Susan); as well as many nieces, nephews, and other extended relatives. He is preceded in death by his parents; Mathias and Mary Ann Stork, his brother Kenneth Stork and his sisters Ruth Lappe and Patricia Stork. Tom will be deeply missed, and we will hold him in our hearts forever. He leaves behind a legacy of warmth, strength and enduring care for those around him. Thirty-seven forever. Save us a seat at the table, Tom Cat.

Thomas Stork

January 7, 1948 - April 29, 2026