Tom G. Tyrrell

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Tom G. Tyrrell, age 83, of Garretson, died on Thursday, July 13, 2017, at the Sioux Falls VA Medical Center. Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 AM Monday, July 17, 2017, at the St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, Garretson. Memorial visitation will be from 3-5:00 PM Sunday at the church, with a Christian Wake Service and Rosary beginning at 5:00 PM.  Memorials are preferred to a local charitable organization.

Tom G. Tyrrell “Thompson George” was born Nov. 2, 1933 in Iroquois, SD to parents Pierce Tyrrell and Marie (Marsh) Tyrrell.  After graduating from Iroquois High School in 1951, Tom enlisted in the US Navy serving aboard the USS Kaskaskia, an oil tanker, during the Korean War and was honorably discharged on Aug. 26, 1954 in San Francisco. In 2015 he received the National Defense medal, Korean Service, China Service, United Nations, KPUC, & Navy Occupation Recognition.

Tom began his further education at Huron College and on May 21, 1955 he married Rose Welsh at St. William's Catholic Church north of Yale, SD. While living in Huron College housing, two children were born: Bruce in 1956 and Brenda in 1958. He received his B.A. Degree in May 1958 and began his career as a teacher and coach. Continuing his education, Tom received his Masters Degree at Northern College in 1962. He worked in school administration as high school principal in Rosholt, SD, and superintendent of schools at Veblen, Waubay, White River and Garretson, SD. Three more boys joined the family: Brian in 1961, Brent in 1962 and Steven in 1967. Tom continued his education during the summers at USD until completing a specialist degree.

He retired after 30 years in public education in 1986, but never lost his love for students and learning, serving on the Garretson school board for 12 years and the state associated school board for 3 years. He attended most sporting events and activities all these years.

After retiring from the Garretson school district, Tom and his wife purchased Jesse James Mini Mart which they managed with help from their children. Tom also had a part time business where he called on schools in eastern South Dakota selling graduation supplies, such as class rings, etc. In January of 2005, he retired.

Tom was a member of St. Rose Catholic Church: serving on the board of directors, the finance committee, was a lector at mass, taught CCD, and was an usher. He was a member of the American Legion for 45 years and held many offices. He had a special interest in Boys State, where he was a volunteer counselor, committee member, and state director. He received recognition over the years and a plaque for total years served.

Tom enjoyed traveling, attending sporting events, reading, playing cards, and especially his grandchildren. He was a member of the Senior Citizens of Garretson.

Grateful of sharing his life are his wife, Rose of 63 years, Garretson; sons, Bruce, Belle Fourche, SD, Brian (Brenda), Garretson; daughter, Brenda, Garretson, and daughter-in-law, Kelli Tyrrell. Grandchildren: Tara (Kyle) Johnson, Newton, IA, Renee (Tyler) Roth Van Meter, IA, Heather and Jacob Tyrrell, Garretson, Alex Jenson, Trosky, MN; 5 great grandchildren: Kylee, Riley, and Charlee Johnson; and Connor and baby Roth; 6 step grandchildren; 7 step great grandchildren; and a nephew, Bill Tyrrell, Grand Forks, ND.

Tom is preceded in death by sons, Steven and Brent “Tommy” Tyrrell, his parents Pierce and Marie Tyrrell, his in-laws, Emmet and Blanche Welsh, and brother, Bill Tyrrell.