Thomas Hilpisch

Age 91 of Lake Elmo, passed away peacefully on January 15, 2026 surrounded by his loving family.

Tom grew up in the shadows of Sacred Heart Church and graduated from Cretin High School in 1952. His Catholic faith was central to his life and something he faithfully passed on to his children. A proud member of the Schoenstatt Movement for more than 40 years, Tom lived his faith through quiet service, devotion to family, and community involvement.

Tom spent his entire professional career at the Minneapolis Star Tribune, beginning as a printer and later serving as a purchasing agent. He also served his country with dedication, completing 33 years in the U.S. Navy Reserves.

Tom and Kaye first lived on the East Side of St. Paul, and he was a volunteer firefighter with the East County Line Volunteer Fire Department. In 1971, Tom moved his family to Lake Elmo, a place he was deeply proud to call home.

A lifelong bowler and golfer, Tom also loved attending the Washington County Fair and the Minnesota State Fair. He never passed up a good garage sale or thrift store and was famously known as the “King of Used Cars,” having owned hundreds of vehicles—but never a new one. He was proud of his German heritage and delighted in sharing stories from a life well lived.

Above all else, Tom was most proud of his family. He was the devoted husband of the love of his life, Kaye, for 65 years, and a passionate supporter of every sporting event played by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He took immense joy in his ever-growing family and was especially proud of his 92 grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Tom was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kaye Hilpisch; infant son, Timothy; great-granddaughter, Camilla; and sister, Joan Callahan.

He is survived by his children: LeeAnn (Jack) Myhra, Mick (Geri), Tim (Susan), John (Liz), and Mary (Steve) Appel; his sister Judy Dooley; 23 grandchildren; and 69 great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward his faith, values, and deep love for family.

Tom’s legacy is one of devotion—to God, family, and country—and he will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Visitation 9:00 - 10:30 am Saturday, January 24 at the Church of St. Agnes, 530 Lafond Ave., St. Paul followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 am.

Interment at St. Mary’s Cemetery, North St. Paul followed by a luncheon at American Legion Post 39, 2678 7th Ave E, North St Paul, MN 55109.

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