Thomas "Tom" J. Sauvageau

A livestream of Tom’s Prayer Service and Funeral Service can be viewed below starting approximately 15 minutes prior to each service.

Tom passed away on Monday, August 31, 2026, at St. Catherine’s South, in Fargo, following a courageous battle with Mesothelioma cancer, surrounded by his family, in a room filled with gratitude and love.

Thomas J. Sauvageau was born on September 17, 1941, at St. Ansgar’s Hospital in Moorhead, MN, the son of Edward and Elmire (Richard) Sauvageau. His life began on the family farm near Wild Rice, ND, where he grew up with his 17 siblings, attending school at St. Benedict’s, graduating with his class of seven. After high school, Tom made the decision to serve his country in the United States Army from 1960 until his honorable discharge in 1962. He returned to his North Dakota roots and began college at Wahpeton State School of Science where he received his training in heating/plumbing. Tom was united in marriage to Linda Iverson on March 27, 1965, at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church. Following their marriage, they lived briefly in Fargo before settling in West Fargo, where they built their own home with the help of family and friends, and remained for over 55 years.

Tom had a wonderful career working for Robert Gibb and Sons for over 40 years. There are many buildings in Fargo/Moorhead and surrounding areas that he managed the construction and remodeling of, that serve as a reminder to many of his dedication and talents. He retired in September of 2001 from working – but never stopped working. During his retirement years he enjoyed his time spent at Little Toad Lake where he worked endlessly on building projects on their camper – building not only an addition and porch, but almost every piece of furniture inside for his family to enjoy. In retirement Tom and Linda were also able to enjoy traveling on many trips with close friends, the first dream trip being a 14-day journey to Alaska, followed by many cruises and various motorcoach tours, his favorite being to Branson.

Tom lived a life of service not only to his career, but more importantly to his family and friends. His servant heart was always there to help his children and grandchildren with any project they had – NO was not a part of his vocabulary. He loved doing woodworking and made many pieces of furniture including desks, bed frames, dressers, book cases, cabinets, and doll furniture for his family. His last request for advice came from his grandson in August who asked his professional guidance on building an underground sprinkling system for his home. Tom was a family man – he loved his wife, his children and grandchildren, his many other relatives, but was a man of God who always served his church as well.

Tom is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Linda Sauvageau of Fargo; his three sons – Todd (Loretta) Sauvageau of Apple Valley, MN; Brian (Carrie) Sauvageau of West Fargo; and Steve Sauvageau of West Fargo; his very special six grandchildren – Tyler (Chelcee) Sauvageau, Parker Sauvageau, Griffin (Madeline) Sauvageau, Garrett Sauvageau, Jenni Sauvageau, and Sophia (Caden) Johnson; and two great-grandchildren – Nixon and Rosie. Also surviving are his siblings – Leonie Rheault, Elaine Staska, Pam Ulness, Leo (Diana) Sauvageau, Clifford Sauvageau, Patricia (James) Dreitzler, Kathy McDonald, Donna (Duane) Schechinger, and Janet (Del) Arneson; and several nieces and nephews and many other dear relatives.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Eddie and Elmire; and his nine other siblings.

In lieu of flowers, please consider directing memorials to the Roger Maris Cancer Center or to Sanford Hospice.