Tom Perrault

In Loving Memory of Tom Perrault

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend Thomas Perrault on January 15, 2025, at the age of 79.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, James and Lella Perrault and brother-in-law, Tom McGinnity. He is survived and deeply missed by his devoted wife of 59 years, Judith Perrault; his children, Dana Buell (Jeff), Chris Perrault (Mollie), Jeannie Herrema (Kevin), and David Perrault (Kimberlee); and his cherished grandchildren, Max, Andrew, Tommy, Jack, Sophie, Will, Ella, Ada, Teddy, Nora, and Emma. He also leaves behind his siblings, Linda (Dave), Patty, Jane (Ron), and John (Barb), as well as countless friends.

Tom was born in Norman, OK, and raised in Saint Paul, MN. He attended St. Mark’s, St. Thomas Academy, and the University of St. Thomas. He began his career as a teacher before working with the Minnesota Fighting Saints and later transitioning to a successful 40-year career in the beverage industry.

Tom had an enduring passion for sports. Whether playing, watching, or officiating he immersed himself in athletics at every level. He played basketball, football and baseball at STA. He continued his basketball career at the University of St. Thomas. While competing in college, he also set his sights on a future in sports officiating. In the late 1960s, Tom began officiating for the Catholic Athletic Association (CAA), where he also served as Athletic Director. From 1971 to 2003, he officiated football and basketball for NCAA Division II and III. A crowning achievement came when he officiated Big Ten football from 1991 to 2003 which included three bowl games, a career highlight that brought him immense pride. Even after stepping off the field, Tom remained devoted to sports. From 2003 until just weeks before his passing, he served as an official game scorer for the Gophers Men’s Basketball team and as an Official Game Timer for the Minnesota Timberwolves, Minnesota Lynx, University of St. Thomas and Big Ten Football. He also served as the Coordinator of Football Officials for the MIAC and UMAC Division III conferences.

Tom’s lifetime of contributions to athletics did not go unnoticed. He was honored with inductions into the CAA, Mancini’s, and St. Thomas Academy Halls of Fame. Recognitions that held special meaning.

Tom treasured life’s simple joys: playing cards, golfing, fishing, and gathering for Sunday family dinners. His greatest happiness came from time spent with his wife, children, grandchildren, extended family and friends.

Tom was dearly loved and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Mass will be held at 10 am, Tuesday, February 4 at Church of the Assumption. 51 W. 7th St., St. Paul, with visitation beginning at 9am. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to West 7th Street Boys Club, Second Harvest Food Shelf, or a charity of your choice.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Tom Perrault, please visit our floral store.