Thomas Schuster, 74

Thomas Marvin Schuster, 74, passed away on August 6 at his home in Baudette, MN.
Tom, or “Tommy” as his siblings lovingly referred to him, or if you knew him in “the good ole days,” was also known as “Gibby.” There are several legends as to how he acquired this nickname. He loved being surrounded by family and friends. He enjoyed watching professional golf, hockey, and football and reveled in his ongoing Packers vs Vikings rivalry with Betty. He also took great pride in watching his grandchildren’s sporting events. Tom took up many hobbies throughout his life, including fishing, hunting, and golfing.

Tom was born on September 5, 1948, in Mankato, MN. He grew up in Wells, MN, and graduated from Wells-Easton High School in 1966. On November 29, 1969, he married the love of his life and partner in all his adventures, Betty Jo Jespersen. Together, they raised three wonderful children- Lori, Jason, and Diana. Tom served in the U.S. Army Reserve from 1966-1972 and was listed as a sharpshooter, no surprise there. Tom drove a semi for the Schuster Family trucking business from 1966-1975. He held a pilot’s license and was an avid flyer during the 1970s. Tom and Betty purchased a farm in Wells and farmed until 1987.

Tom and Betty relocated to Baudette, MN, after purchasing the Red Carpet Lodge, which they renamed Schuster’s Resort. Tom obtained the United States Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Master Credential. Tom was in his element at Schuster’s Resort and could be found most days on the water or with a fishing pole in his hand. He loved guiding fishing trips and sharing his love of the area with those who crossed his path, and indulging in “fishing tales” with whoever would listen. When Tom wasn’t working, he could be found hunting and, of course, fishing. Over the years, he was able to enjoy his passions as a competitor in professional fishing tournaments, elk hunting in Montana, and fishing in Alaska with his family. Family was everything to Tom. He was known for his gentle, quiet nature, his quick wit, infectious smile and laugh, and his love for dogs. Riley, Toby, and Tigger were his loyal companions over the years and could always be found at his feet or in his lap.
Tom is survived by his wife Betty Jo of 53 years; his children Lori (Allen) Miranda, Jason (Angie) Schuster, and Diana (Gregg) Hennum, his ten grandchildren: Gillian, Zachary, and Allison Miranda, Jake, Carter, Merrick and Corbin Schuster, and Garrett, Wyatt, and Estella Hennum. Tom is also survived by his siblings Donnie (Robin) Schuster, Jean (Mark) Nowak, and Cindy (Brett) Sindelir. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Edward and Helen Schuster, John and Winifred McKean, his parents Robert and Betty Lou (McKean) Schuster, his in-laws Bernhardt and Nora (Millhouse) Jespersen, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Tom and his family have endured a long battle in his struggle with Parkinson’s disease. In recent years, Parkinson’s disease prevented him from doing the things that brought him joy. As a tribute to Tom and his memory, please consider contributing to the Michael J Fox Parkinson’s Foundation in lieu of flowers. A link to Tom’s tribute page is listed below.

Funeral services were held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Baudette, MN, Friday, August 11.