Thomas Edward Clarkson

It is with heavy hearts and profound respect that we announce the passing of Thomas Edward Clarkson, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, who departed this world on March 2, 2026, at the age of 84. Born on December 11, 1941, in Highland Park, Illinois, Tom lived a life that was as full and vibrant as the sails he loved to hoist into the wind. Thomas was the cherished son of the late Robert Edward and Nancy Anne (Chalmers) Clarkson, who instilled in him the values of hard work and integrity that he carried throughout his life. He is predeceased by his parents, yet their legacy lives on through the family they nurtured together. Tom leaves behind a loving family who will forever hold his memory dear. He is survived by his devoted wife, Jenny Lynn (Sheahan) Clarkson, with whom he shared many adventures and a lifetime of love. His children, son Thomas Edward Clarkson and his wife Doreen, and daughter Kelsey Ann (Clarkson) Stetzenbach and her husband Don, along with stepchildren Phillip Spencer and his wife Linda, and Jodi (Spencer) Grosinski and her husband Scott, carry forward his legacy. Tom was a proud grandfather and great-grandfather to a treasured group of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, including Mathew Clarkson and his wife Holly, Laurel (Clarkson) Everding and her husband Ryan, Bauer Stetzenbach, Ella Spencer, Lucas Spencer, Liam Bakken, and Finn Bakken. He was eagerly anticipating the birth of another great-granddaughter this April. His sisters, Drue (Clarkson) Syria and Michelle (Clarkson) Nerini with her husband Nick, survive him and will miss his adventurous spirit. Tom's life was one of varied interests and considerable achievements. He was a proud graduate of Highland Park, where his love for hockey earned him a scholarship to Colorado State. His career was as dynamic as his personality, with significant contributions to the hotel industry in Saint Paul, Minnesota, southern Florida, Lake Tahoe, Nevada, and the Playboy Club in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Alongside his late wife, HelenAnne (Wimmer), Tom ventured into entrepreneurship, opening the beloved Mexicali Rose in the 1970s and later operating it with his wife Jenny Lynn, creating a legacy of hospitality and warmth. An Eagle Scout by the age of 12, Tom's life was a testament to the spirit of adventure. Whether sailing the open waters or hunting in the vast landscapes of North Dakota and Canada, Tom lived with passion and zest. His friends and family will remember him for his adventurous spirit, his love of life, and the enduring strength with which he faced every challenge, including his courageous battle with prostate cancer. A celebration of Tom's life will be held on April 11, 2026, at the Church..., where family and friends will gather to honor his memory and the indelible mark he left on all who knew him. For those wishing to extend their condolences, memorial contributions can be made in his name to the Hospice fund, supporting those who provided comfort and care in his final days. The Clarkson family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the many dear friends who surrounded Tom with love and support following his diagnosis in late May 2025. Their kindness and generosity have been a source of strength. Thomas Edward Clarkson's life was a journey of love, adventure, and unwavering spirit. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will sail on in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know him.