We celebrate the life of Thomas Paul Fergen, who was born on April 2, 1951, in Brookings, South Dakota, to James and Lenore Fergen. At the age of 75, Tom passed away on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at his home in Brookings, SD, surrounded by his family. Tom graduated from Brookings High School in 1970 and later attended vocational school for drafting in Canby, Minnesota. In 1975 he married Janice Peterson, and they built a beautiful life together. Through the years, he built a life grounded in hard work, family, and the simple joys that meant the most to him. Tom most recently worked for Twin City Fan and Best Choice Realty.

Tom lived life with enthusiasm and a sense of adventure. He was an avid runner who proudly completed a marathon in Omaha, Nebraska, and he enjoyed many hobbies over the years, including archery, bowling, and water skiing. He had a lifelong love for cars—old and new—and took great pleasure in the many vehicles he owned throughout the years. He especially loved his Harley and never passed up the chance for a good road trip with his local motorcycle group.

Lake Poinsett was always home to Tom. He grew up there with his five siblings, and throughout his life it remained a place filled with treasured memories, family time, and lasting tradition. He continued to own a home on the lake, where he found joy in sharing the water with his children and grandchildren and took special pride in teaching them and cheering on their accomplishments. In later years, Tom and Janice also enjoyed their home in Fort Myers, Florida, where he loved boating, fishing, soaking in a beautiful sunset, and ending the day with a cold beer and a cigar.

Tom took great joy and pride in restoring old homes alongside Janice, a passion they shared and brought to life together. Over the years, they lovingly restored several historic homes in the Central Historical District. When he was not working on a home, Tom could often be found restoring vintage cars and wooden boats—projects that reflected both his craftsmanship and his appreciation for history. Together, Tom and Janice also owned the Sexauer Elevator property, which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, leaving behind a legacy of preservation and care that will be remembered for years to come.

Tom’s life was richly blessed by the family he loved so deeply. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Janice; his son, Kyle (Dawn Waterman); his daughter, Katie Scoates (Luke); his grandchildren, Noah, Harper, Lyla, and Saylor; his brothers, Charlie, Tim (Janet), and Mike (Terri); his sister, Sherri; his sister-in-law, Lynn; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Richard, and his parents, James and Lenore. Tom will be remembered for his steady presence, his love of family, his appreciation for life’s simple pleasures, and the many memories he created with those who knew and loved him. Easygoing and laid-back by nature, Tom made people feel comfortable simply by being himself, and he will be deeply missed. Tom considered his family to be his greatest blessing and proudest accomplishment. He cherished every moment spent with his children and great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.