Thomas Gehring

Thomas Jay Gehring, age 70, of Fargo, ND, died December 2, 2022, at his home.

Thomas was born January 6, 1952 in Camp Rucker, Alabama, to Virgil and Arlene (Lind) Gehring. He lived at Life Skills and Transition Center in Grafton, ND from March 1959 to October 1974.  Since 1974, Tom has received residential services with CHI Friendship in Fargo.  In November of 1997, Tom had the opportunity to move into his own apartment, without any roomates.  This was so important to Tom and he was extremely proud of his independence.  He was able to remain in his own apartment, with Hospice services over the last year, until his death.

Vocationally, he attended the Developmental Work Activity Center (DWAC), the Vocational Training Center, and CHI Friendship’s Vocational Habilitation program where he was supported to work for many years at Once Upon a Child before deciding he wanted his days to be a little quieter.

Thomas was baptized into the Lutheran faith on February 10, 1952.  He was a member of Atonement Lutheran Church in Fargo.

Thomas is remembered by all who knew him as a kind, caring, compassionate and gentle soul who loved spending one-on-one, quality time with people.  He had a beautiful smile that could light up any room and a deep, belly laugh that went with it.  Thomas had lots of friends and he loved spending time outside in the sun, going to the lake and the zoo and having the newspaper read to him, as long as it was only the good news.

Thomas is survived by his brother, John Gehring, of Fargo, ND.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Virgil and Arlene Gehring.