Thomas Yarusso

Thomas Joseph Yarusso passed away peacefully on June 7, 2026, at the age of 82.

A graveside service will be held in his honor on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary's of Marystown Catholic Cemetery (15850 Marystown Road, Shakopee, Minnesota). Father Tom Walker will preside. Immediately following the graveside service, family and friends are invited to gather at Ballard-Sunder Funeral & Cremation (833 S. Marschall Road, Shakopee).

Tom was born on June 3, 1944, in St. Paul, Minnesota, the second of eight children born to Nicholas and Virginia (Bennett) Yarusso. He grew up in Jordan and graduated from Jordan High School.

Naturally curious and gifted with his hands, Tom loved understanding how things worked and could fix just about anything. His mechanical talents led him to establish his own business, Bell Air Heating and Cooling, after completing the necessary training and certifications. He also spent many years working alongside his brother David at David's welding and fabrication company. After retiring, Tom spent time living in Texas during Minnesota winters.

Outside of work, Tom enjoyed many adventures and hobbies. He loved scuba diving and traveled to Mexico and the Bahamas. Photography was another passion, especially capturing flowers, birds, and wildlife. He enjoyed feeding birds, exploring the outdoors, hunting for ginseng and deer sheds, and sharing those interests with his sons.

Tom was a devoted father who taught his boys how to ride bicycles, fish, and appreciate nature. Earlier in life, he also worked as a fishing guide at his aunt's resort in Canada.

Those who knew Tom will remember his generous spirit, grateful heart, and wonderful sense of humor. He was always willing to help others, whether by giving rides to family members, sharing what he had, or lending a helping hand. He saw value in things—and in people—that others often overlooked.

In his final years, Tom especially cherished the time he spent with family and remained grateful for the love and support that surrounded him. After facing health challenges during the last decade of his life, he made his home at New Perspective Senior Living in Prior Lake, Minnesota, where he formed many close friendships and was loved by fellow residents and staff alike. During that time, his Catholic faith became an important source of strength, peace, and comfort.

Tom remained positive and appreciative throughout his life. He was at peace and surrounded by the love of his family in his final days. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Tom is survived by his sons, Brian Yarusso and Paul Yarusso; grandson, Andrew Lloyd; siblings, Ginny (Tom McHenry) Holder, Dr. James (Marsha) Yarusso, Marie Ebert, Daniel Yarusso, Irene (Bob) Waldridge, and Gerard (Karen) Yarusso; along with many other loving relatives and friends.

He was welcomed into Heaven by his parents, Nicholas and Virginia Yarusso, and his brother, David Yarusso.