Thomas Taylor Obituary

Thomas "Tommy" Taylor, affectionately known as "Grandpa Tommy" passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 7, 2025, at the age of 81. Born on July 22, 1943, in Minneapolis, growing up in Wayzata, MN.

Tommy lived life on his own terms, known for getting to the point with his trademark salty language, never worrying whether he might ruffle feathers. Yet somehow, his unfiltered approach gave him a charm that endeared him to everyone. People didn't just tolerate Tommy's directness-they treasured it, collecting and sharing "Grandpa Tommy" stories so widely that he became a legend even to those who had never met him. 

He served our country in the Army in Vietnam. Most of his career he built houses, decks, and porches. He was a talented carpenter passing his skills onto his two sons who worked several years with him on various jobs. He spent winters snowplowing for Wayzata residents and The Wayzata American Legion. 

Tommy approached life with his unique blend of conventional wisdom and unconventional methods. His signature look- a vest with no shirt, and pants if we were lucky-was as memorable as his personality. His favorite shoes were cowboy boots with spurs without a horse in sight. 

In his retirement years he spent time on Grandpa Tom bus duty for his grandkids, causing several "Grandpa Tom" stories that may resemble Bad Grandpa. He loved playing cards, especially Saturday cribbage at the Legion and always provided a weekly update on whether he won or lost. He was a loyal fan at grandkid's sporting events, often providing his off the cuff advice & humor in the stands. He liked his mobile home park referring to his neighbors as friends. He attended weekly donut day and was always available to help any person in need. 

His battle with COPD and beating cancer showed his fighting spirit, approaching treatment with his no-nonsense attitude. A true medical anomaly, he survived countless health challenges while still bowling with the same 16-pound ball he'd found decades earlier as a garbage man. His caregiver team recognized him as a "special soul" who did things his way until the end. 

Tommy was someone you could always count trustworthy, loyal, and kind beneath the gruff. He made this world better simply by being himself. His love for filterless cigarettes, cribbage games, hockey, and stirring up good-natured trouble will live on in the #GrandpaTommy stories still being shared. 

Those who knew Tommy will remember him as someone who truly did it his own way-a colorful soul whose presence left an indelible mark on all those around him. 

He is lovingly remembered by his children: Kurt (Cheryl) Jessica (Matt), Shane (Kim), and their Mother Mary. Grandchildren Jake, Addie, Tobin, Faith and Nevaeh; Sister Charlotte (Richard), Brother JD and nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents Howard and Lorraine Taylor, Mother of Kurt Barb Forrest and Daughter Julie Michele. 

In Tommy's honor, tell a story that makes someone laugh, speak your mind with kindness, and remember that life is too short to worry about being fully dressed. 

A special thank you to St Croix Hospice that provided excellent care while giving support to the family. Thank you to Hope Center that looked after dad and helped navigate the last year. 

A Celebration of Life will be held on July 28, 2025, at 06:00 PM visitation (Remembrance Service 6:30pm) Wayzata American Legion, 949 Wayzata Blvd East, Wayzata, MN 55391 Join us after to share a drink and food while sharing a story. Memorials may be given to Mobile Hope; https://www.mobilehopemn.org/ Maple Hill Estates 7900 Maple Hill Road, Corcoran MN 55340 763-416-0945. Online Condolences may be expressed at www.swedberg-taylor.com.