Thomas Heflin Bandel

Thomas H. Bandel, 87, passed away on Monday, April 27, 2020 at his home surrounded by loved ones. He was born on September 16, 1932 in Rochester, MN to Paul and Edith (Manning) Bandel. He graduated from the Rochester High School in 1950. He enlisted in the United States Coast Guard and served throughout Korean Conflict. After his discharge he returned to Rochester and worked at the family hatchery, was a cook at Michael's restaurant, and eventually retired from Mayo Clinic after more than 30 years of employment in Information Services. He was a proud member of Masonic Lodge No. 21 and Hosanna Lutheran Church. He married Donna Folkert and they had one son, Kim Bandel. They were later divorced. In March 1976 he married Joyce Olson. They enjoyed 36 years of marriage prior to her passing in 2012. Tom and Joyce enjoyed entertaining, gardening and the outdoors. They planted thousands of trees on their acreage north of Rochester. Tom was an avid hunter and fisherman throughout his life. He travelled to Canada dozens of times with friends and family on many outdoor adventures. He was a strong believer in the Second Amendment. He was a great story teller and a voracious reader. He was generous beyond understanding and had an unwavering positive outlook towards life which was infectious and inspiring to others. Tom is survived by his son, Kim Bandel of Portland; brother-in-law, Dan Olson of Dodge Center, sister-in-law, Shirley Jorstad of Hayfield and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, brother, Jack Bandel and sister, Inez Pascke. Due to the Covid-19 conditions there will be a private family ceremony at Pleasant Prairie Cemetery. Memorials are preferred to Mayo Foundation Cancer Research, Salvation Army of Rochester, MN or to Hosanna Lutheran Church. Blessed be his memory. Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes is honored to be assisting the Bandel family. To leave a special memory or condolence please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com