Erling W. Urdahl

Erling “Tom” Urdahl was a devoted husband, dad, grandpa, and great-grandpa. On April 26, 2024, Erling peacefully left his earthly home; welcomed by his loved ones who’ve gone before him in his forever new home. Erling was born on September 19, 1937 in Red Wing, Minnesota to Erling and Irene Urdahl. Erling spent most of his childhood in Minneapolis and graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1955. After graduation, he attended the University of Minnesota and was also in the United States Army Reserve. Tom worked at Hiawatha Golf Course, the University of Minnesota Mariucci Arena, and had a long-standing career with the Minnesota Department of Transportation before retiring in 1995. He married Patricia McGrady in 1964 and together they had two daughters: Carmen and Anita. Tom and Pat spent most of their years in South Minneapolis. After Tom retired, they traveled and spent time in Fargo, North Dakota; Aberdeen and Rapid City, South Dakota; and Omaha, Nebraska. After Pat passed away in September, 2023, Tom moved to Loveland, Colorado and got to spend time getting to know his great-grandchildren who all live in the area. Tom loved his family and had a special place in his heart for dogs and horses. He enjoyed playing and watching golf, was an avid Vikings fan, and was an active volunteer for many years at Trinity Lutheran Church of Minnehaha Falls. Tom loved to laugh, tell jokes, and play silly pranks on his friends that continue to remain legendary. He always had treats in his pockets for any fur friend he met; his gentle and kind spirit is one that will be remembered by anyone who knew him. Erling was preceded in death by his parents and his wife of 59 years, Pat. He is survived by daughters Carmen (Dan) Kamrath and Anita (Doug) Hart; grandchildren Joshua (Josie) Kamrath, Alysia (Calvin) Kamrath-Ward, Megan (Lynx) Kamrath-Hawthorne, Aaron Hart, Krista Hart, and six great-grandchildren. Erling will be remembered for his love and pride in his family, his quiet gentleness, and his contagious laughter. Erling will be laid to rest at Fort Snelling National Cemetery; in lieu of flowers, please donate to Camp Patmos on Erling’s behalf (camp-patmos.org).

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Erling W. Urdahl

September 19, 1937 - April 26, 2024