Thomas “Tommy” Demarais, Chatham Township
Thomas “Tommy” Demarais, age 74, of Chatham Township, passed away on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family.
Visitation will be held from 3:30 to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Maple Lake. The memorial service will be private. Tommy and his wife, Marjie, will be buried at a later date at Marysville Catholic Cemetery. In honor of Tommy, memorial contributions may be directed to cancer research or a support organization.
Thomas John Demarais was born on April 17, 1950, in Cokato, Minnesota, to Archie and Doris (Marquette) Demarais. Tommy grew up on a farm in Waverly, Minnesota, as the middle child of five. He graduated from Howard Lake High School and later settled in rural Chatham Township, where he worked in construction for 20 years in the 49ers union and then he started Tom’s Backhoe Service in 1987. Tommy and Marjie first met 43 years ago while he was ice fishing on Buffalo Lake, and the rest is history.
Tommy and Marjie received their cancer diagnoses on the Monday after Labor Day weekend, which was a devastating blow to the family. Tommy chose to undergo chemotherapy, which he was told might extend his life. Throughout this process, he worked hard to finish his tasks, planned his headstone, and bravely supported his children as they cared for Marjie around the clock. The ten weeks leading up to his death were difficult for him and his family, especially after losing Marjie, his long-time friend, partner, and wife. Together, Tommy and Marjie leave a legacy of eight children, 32 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. They will always be cherished and never forgotten.
Tommy’s unwavering dedication to his business and integrity earned him respect as a legend in the industry. He participated in the annual softball game between Chatham Township and Albion Township, embodying community spirit. A chance encounter with him on the road would be met with a warm wave, showcasing his genuine kindness. Upon your visit, he would greet you by name, his voice filled with enthusiasm and his eyes sparkling with joy.
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