Thomas McShane

thomas mcshane

Thomas W. McShane, 54, Fargo, passed away Thursday, August 11, 2011.

Thomas W. McShane was born to William and Margie (Jendro) McShane at St. John's Hospital in Fargo on July 31, 1957. He was raised in Fargo, attended St. Anthony's Elementary School and graduated from Shanley High School in 1975. Thomas then attended Moorhead State University where he crammed four years into five. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting in 1980.  Thomas W. McShane and Deborah Soderling were married at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Fargo on July 8, 1977. He worked in Public Accounting for over 30 years, specializing in audit and issues of ethics and independence. He was currently a Partner at Eide Bailly LLP.

The loves of his life were his wife, his children, and their spouses. He had a great affection for the Minnesota Twins, relaxing outdoors, and most of all the Green Bay Packers.  Tom was proud of the fact that he had attended seven Packers' games with his sons and brothers. He enjoyed traveling and particularly enjoyed visiting South Africa where "Sundowners" held a special meaning for him.

Thomas is survived by his wife, Deb, Fargo, ND; his mother, Margie McShane, Fargo, ND,  children, Patrick (Tiffany), Fargo, ND, Daniel (Natalie) Minnetonka, MN; siblings , Marjean (Ronald) DeCesare, Edina, MN, Cate (Bill) Coghlan, St. Cloud, MN,  Michael (Becky) McShane, Spring Park, MN, Coleen (Joseph) Jordahl, Fargo, ND, Philip (Jennifer) McShane, Fargo, ND, Kevin (Jill) McShane, Chanhassen, MN, Mary (Keith) Irestone, St. Paul, MN, Beverly (Glenn) Malnory , Fargo, ND, Timothy (Carol) McShane, Edina, MN.

Preceded in death by his father, William G. McShane, and brother, Patrick.

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  1. Bismarck ND
    Deb, Pat & Dan: Leigh and I send our deepest sympathy in this trying time. So many fond memories of Tom watching the boys grow up and Tom always rooting for them and their friends. I will always remember Tom’s smile and greeting whenever our paths crossed.

    Again our thoughts and prayers are with you Deb, Pat & Dan.

    Leigh & Kevin Kaeding

  2. Fargo, ND
    Deb & Family, I was so sorry to hear of the loss of Tom. I worked with him at Charles Bailly for several years and he always had a great attitude and an enjoyment of life. I’m grateful I knew such a nice man. Our prayers are with you.

    Brian & Cindy Becker

  3. Rochester Hills MIMy deepest sympathy to the whole family, especially Tiffany and Patrick. We sat with Tom and Deb at Konnie’s wedding, and had a great time. It was obvious that Tom loved his wife and children so much, and he seemed to be a wonderful and generous man. He crossed the finish line much sooner than anyone could ever imagine. May he rest in peace.

  4. Fargo ND
    I worked with Tom through Eide Bailly. He was a great person to work with. He always seemed very kind and down-to-earth. The people at NovaDigm Therapeutics will miss working with him and we send our very sincere condolences to his family for their great loss.

  5. Broken Arrow OklahomaDear McShane family

    A deep sadness fell over us when we heard Tom had passed. He surely will be missed for he was one of the true gentlemen in the world. Growing up with Tom, and maybe also Tim, was a great experience. The paper route, sleeping out in the garage in the loft in summer and playing baseball are all very fond memories. To a certain extent we thought we were invincible.

    I can say without a doubt the McShane family was one of the cornerstones of life growing up in Fargo. Please except out sincere sympathy.

  6. Alamo CATom and I grew up together on 6th-7th Street and 10-11th Ave (we owned that block) in what was then considered south Fargo. We’d play basketball for hours in Tom’s alley shooting “bricks” at the plywood backboard and hoop on his garage. Sometimes after coming from behind to win with “horse” Tom would say “stop showing off,” and I would try
    to convince him otherwise, and finally have to admit he was right. You always
    knew where you stood with Tom and he was one of my best grade school friends.
    I did not see him as much after Shanley and in our adult lives, but I can see from the video what a wonder man Tom became, how he loved his family (I can see the pride in his eyes), and all the people around him.
    I’m so sorry to hear of his untimely death
    and my sympathies to all of his family and friends. I was blessed to be one of
    Tom’s friends, once a friend of Tom always a friend.
    Thank God the Packers held on to win the big one for him and Tom could go out on top!

  7. Fargo ND
    Dear Deb,

    I was shocked to hear the new….Dean Morlock told me just today. I am so sorry to hear about Tom.

    He was a great man and a true Optimist!

    May he rest in peace,

    Kriss Burns

  8. Fargo ND
    Dear Deb and family,
    We are so sorry for the loss of your husband and Father and our dear friend. We remember all the good laughs we had with Tom at games when the kids where all in school. Tom was a truly devoted husband and father and we will always remember him for his committment to you. His smile will always be in our hearts.
    We are praying for you Deb and children as you are going though this very hard time.
    Sorry that we missed the funeral.
    Love,
    Larry and Gail Bosma

  9. Chicago ILDear Deb & Family:

    I will always remember Tom on our travels in Africa. Always happy & a kind word for everyone. Will miss you Tom. Deb, I along with Sam & the rest of your fans at SA Gems extend our deepest sympathies to you & your family. May god be with you in this difficult time.

    Sincerely,

    Chris LaTrobe

  10. Casselton ND
    Deb,
    Abby told me about your husband’s sudden death. My heart goes out to you and your family. I will contact you in the near future to see if you would like to visit. You were such a comfort to me, making sure the bracelet got fixed – the last gift from my husband.
    Julie

  11. Salem OregonThe Morehead family wishes to express our deepest sorrow for the loss of Tom. Growing up with the McShanes was one of the bright memories of living in Fargo. Memories that Tom was very much part of.

    Even though he was a Packer van and not a Viking one as he should have been, :), he has to be one of the most liked, & loved there is.

    We will truly miss you!

    Steve Morehead
    Mark Morehead

    “Final Final” :):)

  12. Santa Maria CAAunt Margie and all the cousins, So sorry to hear about Tom. I remember him from a couple of family reunions and we both remember him from our more recent visits. Tom will be greatly missed. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. God bless.

  13. Los Angeles CaliforniaOur deepest sympathies to everyone in the family. We are thinking about you.

    -Ron and Sheharazad Fleming

  14. MISSOULA MontanaDeb & Family,
    We were so saddened to hear about Tom’s passing. We enjoyed working with you during the kids’ school events. I know your heart is breaking right now and I pray your memories will bring you peace in time. You all are in our thoughts and prayers!
    With deepest sympathy,
    Al & Deb Rohrich

  15. I was out of town when I got the news about Tom in my voice mail. I didn’t respond to either of my siblings, Bill nor Toots. It was just such a blow to hear this news. I have very fond memories of Tom and his infectious laugh and quick McShane wit! He was one to seek out at a family event. You could always count on a genuine welcome and an embarrassing story about yourself.–I loved him for that.
    Tom, even though I didn’t see much of you in recent years, you have left a hole in my heart nonetheless. We will miss you and all that you brought to our lives.
    Is there a memorial in support of one of Tom’s favorite causes to make donations?

  16. Phoenix ArizonaMcShane Family,
    Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time. My interactions with Tom over the past 12 years were amazing. Tom was a wonderful person who always had time for everyone. His impact as a professional, friend, mentor and person stretched throughout the entire firm and we will miss him grealy.
    Drew and Mary Kramer

  17. Fargo ND
    Deb and Family: I am so sorry about your loss! We remember meeting both of you when Karen and i were getting married. You and Tom welcomed us into your home as our marriage sponsors for the Catholic Church. Our prayers are with you during this hard time in your lives.

  18. Deb and Family,
    My thoughts and prayers go out to you all. I remember seeing your wonderful family at church when I was growing up and how friendly and happy Tom was. May your family memories comfort you during this time.

    Sincerely,
    Julie Fellman Christianson

  19. Fargo ND
    Mike, to you and your family we send our sympathy and prayers at the loss of your brother, Tom. May you enjoy
    God’s consolation and peace for His love and mercy never end.
    – Pat (’66) and Gary Artz

  20. Fargo North Dakota
    Deb and family.
    Hoad and I are with you in thought and spirit as you begin this new chapter in your life without your husband and father physically present. We know he will live on in your hearts and minds and his good works here on earth will continue to be your guide and your solace.

    At the prayer service we were were moved that your family was so strong and united that you each could share a part of your love for him with us. Your words not only brought comfort and peace to many in attendance, but set an example for the rest of us… to love one another with unending passion.

    In Peace,
    Sheila and Hoad Harris

  21. Eden Prairie MN
    Dear Deb, Patrick, Danny and Family- we are thinking about you and praying for you during this difficult time. We are sorry for your loss and hope you find comfort in spending time with one another and looking back on all the memories you shared with your husband and father. Take care.
    Sincerely,
    Elisha, Colin and Finn Shaughnesy (daughter of Becky and Jim Nelson)

  22. Minneapolis Minnesota
    Tom will be sorely missed by his friends and business associates and certainly by me and I am both.

  23. Moorhead MN
    Dear McShane Families,
    My condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to all of you at this difficult time.
    Donnie Rodger

  24. Deb — Bob and I are so sorry to hear about your tragic loss. Unfortunately, we received the news down in Rochester where I was undergoing another knee surgery. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during these difficult times.

  25. Fargo ND
    Dear Deb,
    I am so sorry for your loss! I have thought of you so many times each of the past few days – Tom was such a great guy! A good Sioux Hockey Fan! You will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers – for your strength, for your peace, for your family.
    Terri

  26. Billings MTMcShane Family.
    My deepest sympathies to you on your loss. Although my interaction with Tom through work was all too infrequent, it was easily recognizable that he had deep pride in his family and was a man of great honor. I know I will miss him.

  27. Deb and family,

    Please accept my deepest sympathy and know you are in the thoughts and prayers of so many these days. I hope that all of the support from family and friends brings you comfort and smiles to ease the heartbreak and tears.

  28. Grand Forks ND
    To the McShane Family,

    I am very sorry for your loss. Tom was a great guy, with a big heart and a wonderful outlook in life. I was fortunate to have known him.
    I also want to take this opportunity to express condolences on behalf of the Faculty of the Department of Accountancy.

    Harold Wilde

  29. Fargo North Dakota
    Colleen, I was so saddened to hear about your brother. Please accept our deepest sympathy.

    May God bless you and your family.

  30. Christine ND
    Deb & family, so sorry for your loss, Tom was always polite, friendly, greeted people with a smile. God Bless

  31. Deb & family, as a kid just out of college, Tom was a great mentor and friend when I first started working at Charles Bailly. His sense of humor was great and I always looked forward to St Patrick’s Day when Tom would come out with his annual Irish jokes.

    I will miss him greatly but I’m grateful that he was part of my life.

    Steve & Bobbi Miller

  32. Bismarck ND
    McShane Family. My heartfelt sympathy to you all. It is always hard to lose someone you love. May God give you comfort in your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

  33. So sorry to read about Tom’s death in the Sunday Fargo Forum. We remember the Legion ballgames and a post game picnic at your lake home. May God give you strength and comfort as you start a new season in your life Deb.

  34. Ada MN
    Deb and Family,

    Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you mourn a GREAT GUY! Tom had a funny and outgoing personality, his smile lit up the room, his professionalism was second to none, and he always had time to talk or say Hi whenever we met. I’m glad I got to know Tom, and will miss him as well.

    PEACE to you!!

    Doug and Gena Marcussen

  35. Vermillion SDI am so sorry to hear of Tom’s death. I will always remember his great smile and infectious laugh during my time at Shanley. My sincerest condolences to you and your family.

  36. West Fargo ND
    Deb, Patrick and Dan
    I am so sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. I remember him with great fondness when I was Dan’s teacher at Kinder Kastle. He always made time to listen to his boys and did so with that great smile on his face. May his memory always bring you comfort. My deepest sympathy.

  37. Fargo, ND
    We are so incredibly sorry to hear about Tom’s passing! Please don’t hesitate to let us know if you need anything. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.

    Kris and Steph Overby

  38. Maple Grove MN
    Deb & Family – Much love goes out to you. I have known Tom as a friend and mentor for over 20 years since he hired me as an intern from MSU. I treasure the times I spent with him and am so happy I got to see him the last time I was in Fargo. He was a kind, sincere and a really funny guy! I will miss him, but am so glad I had the opportunity to enter his life. A new angel just hit heaven. 🙂

  39. Fargo ND
    Deb and Family,
    My deepest sympathy and heartfelt prayers are with you at this time of sudden loss of a beautiful and honorable man, husband, father and friend to so many.

    I wanted to be with you tonight, however, I am out of town and so I will see you tomorrow.

    Peace and Love to you,
    Cheryl

  40. Fargo ND
    We were so saddened when we heard that Tom had passed away. At such a young age you ask why..? The answer to that question no one knows. He will always stay in our memories as a very fun loving guy, a loving husband, a terrific friend and a wonderful father to 2 handsome and very kind young men.
    Deb you will be in great hands with Pat and Dan and the love of all your friends and families.. You will hurt for a long time, but the wonderful memories you both had will comfort you throughout your healing period. Our love and heartfelt sympathy to all of you. You are in our thoughts and prayers..
    Jim and Sherry Heyer

  41. Fargo North Dakota
    McShane Family..
    May the love of Jesus surround and comfort you during this time of loss and sadness. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

  42. Fargo North Dakota
    I send my most sincere sympathy. I pray faith, friends, family, and wonderful memories help you through this difficult time. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Kathy Fisher

  43. Minnetonka MN
    Deb, Pat, Dan, Marge, and all of the McShane family, My heart is sad thinking of all of you today. I remember Tom as a cute little boy who evolved into a wonderful man. One thing that stays in my mind is how proud he was of “his boys”. Pat and Dan, you have so much to take forward from having Tom as your father, in these sad days and in the future. It is his gift to you. Deb and Marge, I will be thinking of you in the coming days and weeks. May God give you and all the McShanes strength, comfort and peace. Love, Carole

  44. Fargo ND
    I wish to extend my deepest sympathy to you. I worked at Eide Bailly a few years back and as I did the mail, I saw Tom everyday he was in the office. I always enjoyed my conversatons with him. He will be so missed. His great smile and sinceity was always there for everyone. Helen Madson

  45. Fargo ND
    On behalf of the staff at Paradiso, I want to extend our sympathy to Tom’s family. He was a valued guest, a good friend and a fine man. We will miss his smiling face and the joy he brought whenever he entered our door. May God be with you all.

  46. Deb, Pat, Dan and family, We are so very sorry. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time.

  47. Fargo North Dakota
    My parents neighbors Bill and JoAnne Adkins and myself want to extend our sincere sympathy and thoughts and prayers to you Deb, and all your family, on the sudden loss of Tom.

  48. Verona WIWhat a great guy! Tom was always welcoming and excited to see his sons’ friends come over to hang out and take over the basement. Even in my college years, he and Deb would stop me to chat during Sioux hockey games… I have wonderful memories of Tom and his memory will live on in the strength of Patrick and Daniel’s morality. Both Pat and Dan have been wonderful friends to me and my sister (Jenna) throughout our junior high, high school and college years… though we may have drifted apart, the McShanes have left a wonderful, lasting, memory in our life paths. Our hearts are with you all.

  49. Buckley WAOur prayers and thoughts go out to the McShane family in this time of sorrow. Wife, mother and children are all left with a large hole in their hearts. Tom will be missed by all.

  50. Deb & Family,
    We are so sorry for your loss. Your entire family is in our thoughts and prayers through this difficult time.
    Brenda & Ron Westrick

  51. Moorhead MnWith sincere sympathy to you all. May the wonderful memories help to ease the pain of Tom’s passing.

    Nels & Colleen Flynn-Odney

  52. Prior Lake MN
    I made a comment on Facebook about this is enough God you took my mother in Feburary and now my brother-in-law Tom a few days ago and a co worker commented…”God is too wise to make a mistake the trying of your faith works patience and everybody wants to go to Heaven, but nobody wants to die! Your brother-in-law is fine, its us who remain who suffer but the good news is, this too shall pass! God is the God of ALL comfort, may He comforts you and your family in your time of need! ♥ [draw near to Him and He will draw near to you!]

    God rest you soul Tom….You will be missed!

    Randy, Vickie, Steph & Matt Soderling

  53. Gold Canyon AZ
    I was deeply saddened to hear of Tom’s passing. I know that the Good Lord has seen to all his needs. I have wonderful memories of him that I’ll always carry in my heart from our days at Shanley.

  54. Tucson AZ
    My thoughts and prayers are with the McShane family. Hope you can find peace and love in this difficult time.

  55. Fargo ND
    “We won’t be missing you yet, my friend
    cuz we can’t believe you’re gone.”
    When we do – start believing- we’ll have wonderful memories, great recollections and discover so many things about you, Tom that we never even knew.
    Love and deepest sympathy to Deb, Dan, Pat and All the Family-
    Randy& Robbye Wimmer

  56. Chicago IlI remember playing baseball with Thomas’ son Dan growing up. Every game Mr. McShane was there to watch his son play baseball and was always very nice and talkative with the players and the other parents. When i was in high school with Dan, i’d go watch the Fargo South High School football games and Thomas would always remember me and talk to me when i saw him in the stands, he was so kind. Thomas will be missed and the Mcshane’s are in my thoughts.

  57. West Fargo ND
    To Deb and family,
    Please accept our deepest and heartfelt sympathy. Please know that you are in our thoughts and our prayers during this very difficult time. Tom was a great man with many friends and we are certain that he will be missed by many.
    Randy and Kathy Jundt

  58. Deb and Family,
    I am so sorry to hear of Tom’s death. I have so many wondersul memories of all of you. Tom was such a great guy. Take care. Sandy

  59. Fergus Falls MnMy prayers and sympathy go out to Deb and the family. Tom and I started working for Holtgrewe & Nelson about the same time. Tom was a joy to work with and I have good memories of those days. He was a very dedicated worker and will be deeply missed.

  60. Fargo ND
    My deepest sympathy goes out to the McShane family. Tom will be missed. I remember the days when I was young and he would come to my house and deliver the Forum. So long ago. He would always have a smile on his face and a kind word. I am greatful that I was able to keep in touch with him over the years and that our kids were such good friends. Such great memories. My prayers are with all of you. Love, Ann


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