Thomas Jon “Tom” Kopp was born on March 8, 1970. Tom passed away on October 4, 2026 surrounded by his family after an unexpected cardiac arrest. He was 56 years old. A Celebration of Life service will be at 11 a.m., on Saturday, October 10, at Hosanna Lutheran Church in Mankato, with visitation one hour prior.

Tom was born to Richard “Gary” and Juanita “Anita” Kopp in Ely, Minnesota, and grew up in North Mankato. Tom’s musical talent started at the early age of 5 (was quickly a fan of the band, Kiss) and was a self-taught musician. He played the guitar and drums his whole life. He had a great voice, too. Tom was a part of the band, Love Monkey, in the early 2000s, and volunteered regularly with the church worship band.

Tom proudly graduated from Mankato West High School in 1988 and went on to Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota, graduating in 1992. He was able to attend Concordia on a prestigious scholarship, reflecting his early love and talent for music. He was best known at Concordia for his roles in the Concordia College Band, Concert Band, and Jazz Ensemble. Tom loved being around people. He enjoyed connecting with others, getting to know them, sharing stories and building relationships.

Tom and Angie (Schilling) were united in marriage at Christ the King Lutheran Church on September 23, 1995. They welcomed twins, Kelsey and Tyler, on December 29, 1997. Tom was very involved with Kelsey and Tyler’s summer sports and volunteered as a board member, coach, and tournament director with the Mankato Area Youth Baseball Association (MAYBA). Additionally, he was a big supporter of the Mankato Peppers. Tom was a longtime volunteer, for over 20 years, for Youth in Government. As a political science major in college, this was a meaningful way for him to share his interest in politics with the next generation. Tom was also a godfather to Jacob Hummer, Kate Casio, and Jack Bapp.

Tom received a kidney transplant on May 28, 2025, which gave him a new lease on life. This allowed him to walk Kelsey down the aisle at her wedding, and step confidently into a new season as “Papa” to Lily and Cooper. He was most proud to be a grandpa and was excited to meet his new grandson this coming December. Even before becoming a grandpa, Tom was a “dog grandpa” to Benson, whom he happily spoiled at every opportunity.

Tom is survived by his wife of 31 years, Angie; daughter Kelsey (Nicholas) Campbell; son Tyler (Andrea) Kopp; grandchildren Lily Kopp and Cooper Campbell; sister Jacqueline Hummer; as well as his cousin, Cary (Teresa) Casio, their daughter Kate Casio, who was like a niece to Tom, and nephew Jacob Hummer. All three were especially close to him.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents and his daughter, Emily Kopp.

In lieu of flowers, memorials and support may be directed to Angie Kopp. Tom would also encourage friends and family to consider becoming a registered organ donor. You can learn about the impact of organ donation here: https://www.organdonor.gov/

A Livestream of the service is generously offered by Hosanna Lutheran Church. You may choose to watch the service with the link below:

Hosanna Lutheran Church - Tom Kopp Service