Thomas "Tom" Brazil

Local legend Thomas ‘Tom’ Merle Brazil, 84, danced his way into eternal life on February 16th, 2022, at 4:04 pm. He was surrounded by his family in a circle of love.

Tom was born at home on August 10, 1937, in Faribault, MN. He grew up on the family farm on Kelly-Dudley Lake. After graduating from Bethlehem Academy in 1955, he joined the Army reserves and attended barber school in St. Paul, MN. He opened Tom Brazil’s Barber Shop in 1959, and it grew to become a beloved landmark of the community. If people wanted to get the town’s latest news, hear a terrible joke, or find fellowship they would always stop by the shop.

Tom’s love of the water inspired him to build his dream home on Cedar Lake in 1983 where he enjoyed boating, waterskiing, jet skiing, and fishing. He even served for the Rice County water patrol for 39 years. Family, faith, and fun were some of the most important values in his life. Tom learned how to polka from his mother and the music and dancing became a great love of his life. He also took pride in serving as an usher at Divine Mercy for decades.

Tom’s never give up attitude was a touchstone of his life. Anyone who knew him was touched by his warmth, humor, playfulness, and zest for living. He had the gift of gab, and no matter what part of the world you’re in you can almost always find someone who has a connection to Tom.

The family would like to thank all those that helped with Tom’s care including, Freedom Home Care, Home Health Care, JoDeane Purdie, Allina Hospice, Bill Tussing, Judy Becker, Cheri Hopke, District One Hospital Staff, Pat Potter, Mike Brazil, Rocki Simões, Lida Rogers, and DeAnna Bluhm.

Tom was preceded by his parents, Harold and Marie, and his brother Gerald ‘Chuck’ (Fran Brazil).
He is survived by his loving wife Joyce, children Brenda and Kelly, grandson Isaac and wife Devon, brother Kenny (Joyce Brazil), sister Colleen (Roger Pumper), and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

There will be a visitation on Wednesday February 23, 2022, from 4:00-7:00 pm at Parker Kohl Funeral Home. A Christian Mass will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday Feb. 24th at Divine Mercy Catholic Church in Faribault, MN with a second visitation one hour prior. Interment will be at the St. Patrick Cemetery in Shieldsville, MN at later date.  For those attending the visitation and funeral, the family agrees that masks are not required but are strongly encouraged.  There will be a luncheon to follow at 12:30 p.m. at The Eagles Club, 2027 Grant St. Faribault.  Dress in your Sunday best with a touch of green and stay for some story sharing and a live polka band!

For those unable to attend, you may watch the livestream of the service through a link found on Tom’s obituary page.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Tom’s memorial fund, http://www.freefunder.com/campaign/tom-brazil-memorial-fund