Thomas Patrick Baalman, 78, of Grinnell, died Saturday, February 15, 2020, at the Logan County Hospital.
He was born December 27, 1941, in Hays, KS, to Francis and Sarah (Murphy) Baalman. Tom was a math and science teacher with a career spanning 27 years at Oakley High School, and 3 years at Quinter HS. He had a tremendous impact on nearly every student he taught. He also farmed with his brother Jim for approximately 30 years. His biggest hobby was hunting including working with guns and reloading. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, machining on his lathe and milling machine, gardening, woodworking, being outdoors, collecting, and had a deep appreciation of history and antiques.
On June 13, 1970, Tom married Patricia Braun. Tom and Pat enjoyed a 49-year marriage, and had a close relationship in which where one went the other was there also. He was a member of the Mensa Group and a Golden Eagle member of the NRA. Tom also was a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Anyone who knew Tom would agree that everything he did was an adventure. He enjoyed every minute of his retirement, and did not like to remain stationary.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Bob and Jim and granddaughter Makena Grace.
He is survived by his wife Pat, of Grinnell; children, Dave (Dayla) Baalman, of Russell, and Melissa (Rob) Thompson, of Grinnell; grandchildren, Kaden, Rylan, Mequela, Emma, Olivia and Caleb and siblings, Dan Baalman, Jack Baalman and Rose Koggie.
Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m. Thursday, February 20, 2020 at the Immaculate Conception Parish Center, Grinnell, with a Vigil at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Mass is 10:30 a.m. Friday, February 21, 2020 at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Grinnell, with burial to follow in the church cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the church or St. Jude’s and can be sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 204, Oakley, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit www.baalmannmortuary.com