September 8, 1953 - March 5, 2025
Rev. Thomas John Zarth, of Richfield-Bloomington, passed away peacefully during sunset on March 5th, Ash Wednesday, at the age of 71. A devoted father of four and a Lutheran Pastor for four decades, Tom was an example of how God's grace and compassion are present in our world. Tom's ministry was guided by God's love, mercy and grace for everyone he supported, as well as galvanizing social justice everywhere. Ever the warm host, Tom welcomed anyone in his home with unforgettable meals, music, and joy.
Survived by his partner, Jennifer; four beloved children, John (Kelly), Adam (Kelly), Zoë and Annika; and grandchildren, Rowan, Gus, and Silvia; sister, Randee and brother, Steve (Ann), and many friends and relatives.
Memorials to Luther Seminary, attn: Contextual Learning Internship Program.
Please list Tom Zarth fund.
Visitation
Saturday, March 22, 2025
10:00 - 11:00 AM
Oak Grove Lutheran Church
7045 Lyndale Avenue S.
Richfield, MN 55423
Memorial Service
Saturday, March 22, 2025
11:00 AM
Oak Grove Lutheran Church
7045 Lyndale Avenue S.
Richfield, MN 55423
Deepest sympathies to the Zarth family. He was a very special friend and pastor to me during his tenure at Oak Grove Church. I have fond memories of times together with the youth groups and deep respect for all he gave in his life and ministry. He was a gifted servant of God. May he rest in the arms of Jesus.
Pastor Zarth was a good friend and pastor to me; a great preacher.
Mark Swanson, retired ELCA pastor
A true man of God. Pastor Tom was a good friend as well as a spiritual leader. He was there for me during some of the most difficult times times in my life.
He may no longer dwell among us, but he will never be forgotten.
“Papa Tom” was an incredible human and a wonderful partner in grandparenting Gus. Thank you, Tom, for blessing our family with John. You are dearly loved and will be greatly missed.
Pastor Tom was a wonderful friend to my mom,, Ethel. He baptized both of our children, officiated our daughters wedding and baptized all 3 of our grandchildren. We truly loved him anf will miss him.
Our deepest condolences to the family. Tom will be deeply missed.
I worked at the daycare in the 1990s when Pastor Zarths boy’s John and Adam attended. He was such a wonderful father and spiritual leader. It is a privilege to have known him.
Pastor Tom you were such a kind compassionate man, you were always there for our family (The Koppangs ) We certainly loved you and Thank you for singing at one of my kids baptism one of our favorite songs, “I was there to hear your borning cry, performing my mom’s funeral and dad’s funeral services you were a blessing to our family, Thank you! ❤️
Sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. We were very close friends in high school in St. Louis Park and graduated the same year. Tom and I were in all the choral ensembles at St. Louis Park HS and I remember his fine voice and gentle demeanor.
Pastor Tom, well done, good and faithful servant. We are grateful for your ministry of Word, Sacrament, and music to our family and so many others. May you now rest in peace from your labors.
Zarth family and Oak Grove family, you are in our thoughts and prayers as you celebrate the life of Pastor Tom.
Many memories flash back to the 90s. Pastor Tom and I co-taught some cathecism sessions. Plus I always enjoyed the
music Tom played along with the other players for the contemporary service. Best of all memories was the teen trip to New York. Tom made navigating New York so enjoyable. We had times of good sharing, He played and sang with his guitar,
Bye , Bye, Mr. American Pie. I feel sad of course but thank God for rich memories.
As former Richfield neighbors of Tom and Jennifer, we were deeply saddened to learn of Tom’s death. Tom was so gifted in music, speaking, the written word, and we admired him greatly! And wow, what a cook! He brought the best Swedish meatballs ever to our block party! We extend our deepest sympathy to Jennifer and family!