Thomas Edward Belka was born on Jan. 22, 1947, to Edward and Marguerite (Abel) Belka in Detroit Lakes. After his family spent a brief time in Alabama during the Korean War, they returned to Minnesota where he attended Fergus Falls Public Schools. He was an active member of the Boy Scouts of America, and was awarded the first Pro Deo et Patria (God and Country) medal ever given out at Trinity Lutheran Church.

He also participated in a trek at Philmont Scout Ranch near Cimarron, N.M.

After graduating high school, he attended the North Dakota State School of Science in Wahpeton, N.D., completing a degree in Automotive Mechanics.

Tom worked at Mike’s Machine Shop in Fergus Falls, and also owned a service station. He then moved to Daytona Beach, Fla., where he worked for Car Seal Corporation. He later returned to Minnesota and worked as a machinist and mechanic in Fergus Falls, Elbow Lake (where he owned Norlock Industries), Milnor, N.D., and Morris.

Tom was also in the U. S. Army Reserves from 1967 to 1973, serving as an explosives specialist in an engineering company.

Tom’s marriage to Kathy Nelson brought him three wonderful children: Cheri, Travis, and Kari. Tom was a generous and kind-hearted person, always ready to help others, and was a faithful friend.

Those who knew him as a teenager will remember him as a fantastic roller skater, and as a lover of cars, which became a life-long affection. He was also an avid reader and supporter of the Morris Public Library. Friends and family alike were well acquainted with his sense of humor and love of telling jokes. Even while in the hospital, he cheered those around him with his wit. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Marguerite Belka.

He is survived by daughters Cheri Linton and Kari Belka, and son Travis Belka, all of Fergus Falls; three grandchildren, Kayla Linton, Dylan Belka and Hannah Belka; a brother, Lee (Laurie) Belka of Eden Prairie; a sister Kathy (Steve) Shark of Fargo; nieces, nephews and cousins; and many dear friends, especially James Island, Myron Hollatz and Ken and Ardyce Johnson.

A private memorial gathering is planned at a later date for immediate family and friends.