Thomas Robert Zak

Age 87 of Vermillion, SD, passed away on May 1, 2025 at Vermillion Care Center.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas & Anne. He is survived by his wife, Diane (nee: Klawiter); siblings, Don (Judy), Gary (Diane), Carol (Doug) Streitz, David (Mary), Diane (Don) Degendorfer, Sharon (Terry) Lundquist, Nancy Zak; brothers-in-law, Kim (Kathy) Klawiter, Stephen Klawiter; many nieces, nephews, other relatives & friends.

Tom was born in Minneapolis to Thomas and Anne Zak. The family later settled in Forest Lake, where he graduated from Forest Lake High School in 1955 as a star athlete. After high school, Tom proudly served his country in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany. Upon returning home, he pursued higher education and earned his degree from Hamline University.

Tom loved photography and traveling with his wife, Diane. Together, they enjoyed exploring new places.

In addition to photography and travel, Tom found joy in the simple things—classic country music, the companionship of his dogs, and time spent with those he loved most.

A celebration of Tom’s life will be held from 2-5 PM Friday, August 15^th with a Military Honors Ceremony at 3 PM at the Forest Lake American Legion, Post 225.