Tom Jones

Tom Jones, 57, of Moorhead, died at his group home under the care of his loving staff, hospice and family on Saturday, April 16th after complications from Parkinsonism’s and pneumonia. Tom was born in Fargo on October 11, 1953, to Paul and Maura Jones. Tom was diagnosed at an early age with developmental disabilities and as a result, has always been dependent on the care and compassion of his family, friends and others. One of Tom’s greatest gifts was his sense of humor. The twinkle in his eyes and his larger-than-life personality drew people to him, wherever he went. When you were with Tom Jones, there was never a dull moment (although at times we wished for one :-). Tom was very lucky to have spent the last 11 years of his life surrounded by a highly skilled and incredibly loving group of caregivers. The environment his caregivers created was nurturing, respectful, supportive and there was never a shortage of laughter. Tom spent several hours each week day at the Adult Life Program at Heartland Industries. Tom loved to go to Heartland, where he would work and enjoy a variety of activities and outings, particularly to the Moorhead Moxie Java. The Heartland staff loved Tom and appreciated his unique qualities, especially his ability to have fun. Tom is survived by his mother, Maura and siblings: Dan (Julia), Fargo, Matt, Fargo, Margaret (Jeff Risberg), St. Paul, MN, Paula Jones-Johnson (Pete), Richwood, MN, Pat (Jennifer Zajac), Audubon, MN. Nieces and nephews: Paloma, Cecelia, Danielle, Ian, Dustin, Erica, Patrick and Joey. Great nieces and nephews: Thomas, Grace, Lucy, Owen and Jack. Tom was especially close to his Aunt Monica Kuklenski, and Presentation Sister, Anne O’Brien. Anne became part of Tom’s family when she met Maura and Tom at the appointment of his initial diagnosis, 51 years ago. Tom is also survived by his extended family at the group home and Heartland Industries in Moorhead. Tom is preceded in death by his father Paul and his grandparents. A celebration of Tom’s life will be held on Wednesday, April 19th at 3:00 pm at Hanson-Runsvold Funeral Home, South 215 7th Street, Fargo, ND. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Sisters of the Presentation, Hospice of the Red River Valley, Center for Interfaith Projects and ARC of Cass or Clay Counties.