Thomas Joseph Huelskamp Sr.

Thomas Joseph Huelskamp was born on April 9, 1931, at Loretta Hospital in New Ulm, Minnesota, to Willibalda and Raymond Huelskamp. He grew up on a dairy farm near New Ulm alongside his four brothers and four sisters. His mother’s family owned and operated Eibner’s Restaurant, a well-known family gathering place.

Tom graduated from Holy Trinity High School and attended his freshman year of college at St. John’s University in Collegeville, MN. In 1951, he answered the call to serve his country and joined the United States Army. He attained the rank of sergeant and served on the front lines during the Korean War. Tom was deeply proud of his military service. His leadership, bravery, and courage earned him numerous medals, including the Purple Heart.

After completing his military service, Tom returned to college and completed his education with the help of the GI Bill. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Mankato State University.

Tom’s first career was as a high school business teacher and coach. On September 8, 1956, he married the love of his life, Juanita Hoffman. Together, they shared nearly 70 years of marriage and raised six children.

In 1958, Tom began a 35-year career with Wilson Foods. He held many leadership positions and was recognized throughout the industry for his expertise in the development of the boneless ham. Along the way, Tom developed many lasting friendships and was highly respected by those with whom he worked.

Tom was a gifted and enthusiastic athlete, playing many competitive sports. His love of sports never faded as he participated in a bowling league well into his 90s.

Tom had a deep love for the outdoors and took great pride in caring for his home and yard. Wherever the family lived, he planted trees, flowers, and vegetable gardens. He especially enjoyed his John Deere riding mower. Gardening and working outdoors gave him great satisfaction and reflected his appreciation for the simple pleasures of life.

Faith was an important part of Tom’s life. As a young boy he was an altar server. At Epiphany, he served as Eucharistic minister, board member, feeding the hungry, and taking care of parish flowers and trees. His faith was demonstrated not only in his service at church, but in the way he cared for and served others throughout his life.

Above all, Tom loved his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was an excellent provider and caregiver and took tremendous pride in each of his children and their accomplishments. His family was his greatest source of joy, and the values of hard work, service, faith, and devotion that he lived each day will continue through the generations.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Juanita; daughters Julie Meltzner, Kathie Dula (Philip), Karen Boaz (Steve), Mary Bullard (Greg), and Patty Weir (Chip); and son Tommy Huelskamp (Livy). He is also survived by 13 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and his beloved dog, Buckley.

He was deeply loved, faithfully devoted, and will be greatly missed.

The family would like to express our gratitude to the incredible care provided by Trinity Hospice and Visiting Angels.

The family asks that memorial donations be made to Epiphany of the Lord 50·50 Renovation Project in memory of Tom Huelskamp.

To view the Mass for Tom, please visit the link below:

https://www.youtube.com/@EpiphanyoftheLordOKC/streams

Donations may be made in Tom's memory to Epiphany's parish project at the link below:

https://epiphanyokc.org/give