Thomas 'Tom' Stuard

Thomas Joseph Stuard of Baxter, Minnesota, passed away on September 23, 2026, in Brainerd. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at South Long Lake Church in Brainerd. Please omit flowers.

Tom was born in Brainerd on December 9, 1941, and was a man of remarkable strength, generosity, humor, and depth.

Tom shared his life with his wife, Carol June Stuard, and together they built a family that meant everything to him.

He was the father of four daughters: Debbra Rae Stuard, Julie Rae Lundblad, Trudy Renee Garcia and her husband, Manuel, and Jennifer Stuard.

He was a deeply cherished grandfather. Julie’s children are Sylyr, Reagan, Cade, and Xander; Trudy’s children are Isabella and Bug; Jennifer’s children are Andrew, Ryan, and Jamy.

Tom entered the Navy at age seventeen as a “Kiddie Cruiser” and served three years aboard the USS Forrestal, fulfilling the role of navigator. He also worked as a surveyor for the Minnesota Department of Transportation. He later answered a calling to ministry, serving as a pastor with the Christian and Missionary Alliance in Montana and Minnesota, spanning two decades.

Tom loved fishing, studying Scripture, and spending time with his grandkids. He was a skilled carpenter, sailor, mechanic, and guitar player. He approached life with a drive for knowledge, leading him to be a jack of all trades.

Above all was his love for his bride of sixty-two years, Carol. Whether they were celebrating a special occasion or simply spending time together, he loved doing everything with her.

Tom was preceded in death by his daughter Debbra, parents Claude and Mariol Stuard, best friend Bob Anderson, and brother Michael.

He is survived by his wife Carol, three daughters, and nine grandchildren, along with the family and friends whose lives he touched.

His life was a gift to those who knew him, and his memory will continue to live in the hearts of his family and friends.