Thomas S. 'Tom' Deans

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Deans, Thomas S. "Tom" Age 77. Born March 21, 1946. Died peacefully on March 12, 2024 from Dementia with Lewy Bodies. Graduated from Blake School class of 1964, attended Northwestern University, and graduated cum laude from the University of Minnesota Law School in 1973. Tom had an extensive and impressive career in Law, Public Policy, and Education. He joined the Minnesota State Senate as Senate Counsel representing the Senate Education Committee and the Senate Education Finance Committee. He was the primary draftsman of many omnibus education aid bills. He joined the law firm of Peterson, Popovich, Knutson & Flynn in 1978. He remained with the firm for many years and through many name changes. He retired in 2021 as President of Knutson, Flynn & Deans P.A. He was a frequent lecturer and speaker at various MSBA Continuing Legal Education and School Law seminars, as well as author for several publications. He was legal counsel to numerous school districts and cities. Some of his many awards and affiliations include the Minnesota State Bar Association, Dakota County Bar Association, National Association of Bond Lawyers, Council of School Attorneys, Association Leaders Award (MASBO), Minnesota School Boards Association, Minnesota Council of School Attorneys, Super Lawyer 2003, Who's Who In American Law. When he was not working, he enjoyed time with his family on the lake Up North, or spending time in Florida. He is preceded in death by his father and mother, Tom and Jerri Deans. He is survived by his wife of 49 years Bobbie, his children Kasey and Tyler, and grandchildren Adeline and Fiona. There will be a Celebration of his life on May 19th, at 2pm, at Golden Valley Country Club. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to: Blake School, Northwestern University, Minnesota Children's Museum, Children's Cancer Research Fund.

Published on March 24, 2024