Thomas Martin Soderberg, 69, of Cook, Minnesota, died peacefully at home on September 9, 2026, concluding a life shaped by a love of family and friends, enjoyment of the outdoors, a talent for sports, and a general delight in living.

Tom was born on March 8, 1957 in Virginia, Minnesota, to Earl and Dorothy (Hassenger) Soderberg, and grew up in Cook. Affectionately known as “Sody” to friends, he graduated from Cook High School and Mesabi Community College in Virginia. Over the years, Tom lived in several places, including Maple Grove, Minnesota, and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but Cook was always home.

Tom was a retired supervisor at U.S. Steel-Minntac, where he had been a millwright and a member of the United Steelworkers. He had also worked at Honeywell in the Twin Cities and US Steel in Pittsburgh. He enjoyed being outside and spent much of his free time golfing, fishing, hunting, boating, and burning brush at the cabin.

Athletics were a lifelong passion. In his younger years, Tom was an avid bowler, basketball, football, hockey, baseball, and softball player, and he had a genuine appreciation for just about any sport. He started golfing at age 10, when he would be dropped off at the course early in the morning and stay out there all day until he could catch a ride back into town.

Tom attended Trinity Lutheran Church with enthusiasm. He was usually there bright and early, often served as an usher, and always appreciated the fellowship. He also regularly volunteered at the Cook Care Center, where he loved visiting with the residents. In both places, Tom found meaning in the simple joys of just being with other people.

Tom also dearly loved his dog, Petey. Their bond was a special and important part of his later years.

Tom was deeply thankful for the excellent medical care and support he received over the years, and grateful to the many people who helped and cared for him.

Tom is survived by his sister, Bailey Jane Soderberg Conger (William); his nieces and nephew, Mary Conger (Adam Bliss), Liam Conger (Charanna), and Elizabeth Pretti; and his grand-niece and nephews, Soder, Wyck, Zabet, and Caro Bliss; Lars Conger; and Luke, Ladd, and Pippa Pretti. He is also survived and remembered fondly by many cousins and special friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Dorothy; his aunts Elsa, Laura, Bonnie, Mildred, and Barbara, and his uncle Wendell on the Soderberg side; and his uncle William Hassenger and aunt Barbara Takala.

Tom always enjoyed the company of others, whether gathered around coffee at church, in a fishing boat with a friend, or just waving to neighbors as he walked Petey around town. He will be remembered for his appreciation for the people around him, and the many small ways in which he made a difference in the lives of others.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026 at 9:30am at Trinity Lutheran Church, followed by the Memorial Service at 11:00am. Lunch and fellowship will be held immediately after the service. Memorials to: Cook Care Center-Activities Fund or Trinity Lutheran Church Music Fund.