Thomas Earley

Thomas W. Earley, age 76, of Cottage Grove passed away unexpectedly on Jan. 22, 2017. Tom was born the second youngest of five to John & Marie (Jasperson) in St. Paul on November 22, 1940. He graduated from Wilson High School in 1958. Tom served his country in the US Navy from 1959-1963 and 1965-1967 spending time overseas. In 1975, he bought a house in Cottage Grove; where he and Peggy continued raising their family. He retired from the Pioneer Press after 30+ years in 2004. Tom enjoyed hunting, fishing, being outdoors, and spending time with his family. Survived by his loving wife, Peggy; children, David (Victoria), Jackie (Dave) Sobczak, Brian (Sue), Heather; grandchildren, Michael (Amy), Daniel (Christina), Johnny, Kimberly, Ryan, Donovan; great grandchildren, Vanessa, Jameson; brother, Michael (Carole); brother-in-law, Bruce Lupelow; many other relatives and friends. Preceded in death by siblings, Marie Roberts, Joan Tanzer, Raymond. Memorial service 11 am, Sat. Jan 28 at Kok Funeral Home (7676 80th St. S. Cottage Grove) with visitation starting at 10 am. Private interment Fort Snelling National Cemetery. He will be deeply missed by many.