Rev. Thomas J. Zarth - Morris Nilsen Funeral Chapel

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), Zoe 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.




8 Comments

  1. Kristen Swan says:

    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.

  2. Mark Swanson says:

    Pastor Zarth was a good friend and pastor to me; a great preacher.

    Mark Swanson, retired ELCA pastor

  3. Donna Paakkonen says:

    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.

  4. Greg Hansen says:

    “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.

  5. David Quick says:

    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.

  6. Matt Cutter says:

    Our deepest condolences to the family. Tom will be deeply missed.

  7. Mary Olson says:

    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.

  8. Jeanne Aamodt and Tony Koval says:

    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! ❤️

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