Thomas “Tom” Messerly

Thomas was born December 13, 1937 in Fort Dodge, IA to Howard and Hazel Messerly. He attended Fort Dodge schools and later enlisted in the Army.

Tom had many hobbies that he enjoyed over the years, which included fishing, pheasant hunting, coin collecting, photography, and playing cards with his friends.

Tom is survived by his wife Lora; children Sean (Sally) Mansfield of Norwalk, IA; Jamie Mansfield of Cedar Falls, IA and Tara (Aaron) Kruse of Spirit Lake, IA; grandchildren Eli, Draper, Wylder, Max and Olivia; his sister Kay (Jim) Gilpin of Prescott Valley, AZ; his sister-in-law, Jan Messerly of Arden Hills, MN; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Hazel Messerly; and his brother Don Messerly.

Tom took over his father’s auto repair business, Howard’s Body Shop. Tom kept the business open until September 1, 2025. During that time cars were repaired and many friendships were formed.

Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 15th, 2025 at the Gunderson Funeral Chapel with Tom’s nephew, Chris Messerly officiating. Visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday, November 14th at Gunderson Funeral Home & Cremation Services.

Memorials may be left to the Fort Dodge School System or a local food bank.