Thomas Fankhanel

Thomas “Tom” Paul Fankhanel, 72, of Detroit Lakes, MN, passed away on Saturday January 12, 2019, in Park Rapids, MN, under St. Joseph’s Hospice Care. Thomas Paul Fankhanel was born on August 5, 1946, in Detroit Lakes, MN, to Kurt and Charlotte (Hinze) Fankhanel.  He graduated from Frazee High School with the class of 1964.  After graduation Tom enlisted with the United States Navy in 1965. Tom served with the Navy Corpsman during the Vietnam War.  Tom was discharged in 1967.  After his discharge, Tom moved to Fergus Falls, MN, and began working at the Fergus Falls State Hospital.  He obtained his nursing degree and transitioned into working as a registered nurse in Detroit Lakes. In February of 1970, Tom was united in marriage to Cheryl Mayer at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Frazee, MN.  They had two daughters, Shawna and Katie. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, enjoyed reading, gardening and painting. Tom is survived by his two daughters Shawna Fankhanel (Adrian) Chavez, Katie (Michael) McGowan; two grandchildren Alexa and Carter McGowan; and life companion Sharon McMahon and family. He is preceded in death by his parents Kurt and Charlotte Fankhanel; infant daughter Paula Renae Fankhanel; and brother Stuart Fankhanel.