Thomas Edward McBroom

THOMAS “TOM” EDWARD MCBROOM, age 66, of Elysian, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, August 8, 2025.

Born on September 16, 1958, in Atlanta, Georgia, Tom was the son of Hubert and Ernestine (Hoseman) McBroom. He was raised in Greenville, Mississippi, and graduated from St. Joseph’s High School with the class of 1976. Shortly after, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he proudly served for 23 years as a special agent. In recognition of his exceptional service, Tom was awarded the prestigious AFOSI Enlisted Special Agent of the Year honor in 1996. His military career took him around the world, most notably to Berlin, Germany, where he met the love of his life, Tracy Krautbauer. They were united in marriage on January 3, 1993, in Alma City.

Following his honorable discharge, Tom continued a life of service, working as a detective with the Benicia Police Department in California. After relocating to Minnesota, he joined the Rice County Sheriff’s Department, where he rose to the rank of sergeant. Tom’s commitment to his community extended beyond law enforcement—he was elected to the Elysian City Council in 2013 and later served as Mayor for six and a half years. During his tenure, he was instrumental in the establishment of the Veterans Memorial Park in 2020, a project especially close to his heart.

A devoted sports fan, Tom loved cheering on the Dallas Cowboys, LA Dodgers, Waterville Indians, and his beloved Ole Miss Rebels. More than anything, he cherished time with his family. Tom was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Janesville and was an active member of American Legion Post 311 for fifteen years, serving as Commander from 2023 to 2024. Known for his quick wit and easy conversation, Tom could strike up a friendly chat with anyone, and he never met a stranger.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Tom is survived by his wife of thirty-two years, Tracy McBroom of Elysian; children, Lori McBroom of Minneapolis, Thomas E. (Megan) McBroom Jr. of Shakopee, Dallas (Maddie) McBroom of Mankato, Landry (Dalton) Grose of Waterville, Grant McBroom of Elysian, Troy McBroom of St. Peter; grandchildren, Addi, Cayden, Harper, Gracelyn; mother, Ernestine McBroom; siblings, Suzanne Strickland, Kathy Cummings, Shelly Craven, Johnny McBroom, Mickey McBroom, Jennifer Horton; mother-in-law, Dianna Krautbauer; brother-in-law, Troy Krautbauer; sister-in-law, Tara Ward; and many other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his father, Hubert Ray McBroom; and father-in-law, Bruce Krautbauer.

Visitation for Tom will be held from 3 – 7 PM on Monday, August 11, 2025 at the Janesville Chapel of Dennis-Steffel-Omtvedt Funeral and Cremation Service. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service on Tuesday at the church.

Funeral service will be at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, August 12, 2025 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Janesville. A private family burial will be held at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis.