Thomas Deegan 81

October 11, 1944 -

December 31, 2025

 

Thomas W. Deegan, passed on Wednesday, December 31, 2025 at home, near Saratoga, Iowa. 

Tom was born on October 11, 1944, at the Riceville Hospital to William and Mary (Priestley) Deegan and grew up on the family farm a few miles west of Saratoga. 

Tom graduated from high school in 1964. After completing military service, he worked at the Mayo Clinic, then as a supervisor for Welp and McCarten, before beginning his final occupation in agricultural drainage for Mehmert Tiling, Inc. that lasted over three decades. 

Tom enjoyed taking care of the family farm, always finding a project to occupy his time in retirement and often seen mowing yards during the summer. He also thoroughly enjoyed attending dirt track races, especially Deer Creek, attending hundreds of races over the decades with his son. He also enjoyed his westerns, especially anything with John Wayne and the late 50’s westerns. He was a proud 3rd generation caretaker of the family farm that has been in the family, since 1909. 

Tom is survived by his wife Madeline (Tetzner) Deegan and his son William and wife Mara. 

Tom was preceded in death by his parents and brother Charles who passed in 1937. 

A private family service will be held at a later date. Schmelzer Funeral Home in Riceville is assisting the family.