Thomas Victor Hennessey, age 85, of River Falls, Wis, peacefully passed away in his sleep on July 3, 2026, due to complications from his heart and diabetes at the Tomahawk Aspirus Hospital.
Tom was born on Nov. 22, 1940, in Olivia, Minn, as the fifth child in a loving family of six. A proud graduate of Hector High School, where he excelled in football and wrestling, he later served his country in the US Air Force. In 1960, he married Beatrice Herrmann, and together they welcomed four children into the world.
In 1971, Tom and his family moved to River Falls, where he began his impactful career with Lester’s Buildings, serving five counties. Retiring in 2005, his legacy at Lester’s endures, as many still affectionately refer to him as “The Legend.”
Passionate about life, Tom enjoyed hunting, fishing, bowling, snowmobiling, trap shooting, golfing, and playing cards with family and friends. He created countless happy memories at Voyager Village in Danbury. Family picnics and reunions were highlights of his life, where his wonderful sense of humor and love for others was always evident. He was also actively involved with the Knights of Columbus in his younger years.
Tom is survived by his children, Dan (Danielle) Hennessey, Danette “Nettie” (John) Koehler, Debbie (Gordon) Smith, and Dave Hennessey; nine grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and his brother, Don (Roz) Hennessey, and sister, Marge Folsom. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Jim and Roger Hennessey; and sister, LaVonne Bretzing.
Tom’s life will be celebrated with a memorial service at noon Saturday, July 18, 2026, at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services (805 E. Division St., River Falls, Wis.) Prior to the service, family and friends are invited to gather for visitation from 10 a.m. to noon at the same location. Following the memorial service, a reception celebrating Tom’s remarkable life will take place from 1- 4 p.m. at the Nutty Squirrel, located at 110 S. Main St., River Falls. Join us as we honor a truly extraordinary man whose laughter and love touched all those who knew him. Memorials may be directed to the American Heart Association.
Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.
