Thomas Seelert Inman

Thomas Seelert Inman, 92, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2025, in Palmer, Alaska, in the presence of loving family. Born in Enderlin, North Dakota, Tom spent most of his life in Minneapolis until 2022, when he moved to Alaska to be closer to his youngest daughter following the passing of his beloved wife.
Tom was a man of distinguished service and quiet leadership. First in his family to attend college, he earned his Bachelor's degree in Physical Sciences from Harvard University on a full scholarship through the US Navy ROTC program. He served with honor as a Lieutenant in the United States Navy aboard the USS Tarawa, an Essex-class aircraft carrier. This experience was formative to his life and leadership.
Following his military service, Tom became a successful businessman, serving as owner and president of Hydra-Powr, Inc., for 30 years. Under his guidance, the company grew from a modest 2-person operation when he purchased it to a thriving 100-employee hydraulic valve manufacturer and distributorship spanning three Midwest locations by his retirement in 1994. Those who worked with Tom remember his distinctive leadership style, as he was known to walk through facilities to greet every employee regardless of position, taking time to listen and offer encouragement.
Tom's positive impact extended far beyond business. He established an endowment scholarship at Edison High School in Northeast Minneapolis, awarding scholarships annually to deserving students in the amount of $1,950 to honor his own Class of 1950.
Tom was devoted to his wife of 62 years, Suzanne Fermaud Inman, who preceded him in death in 2021. Together, they were passionate supporters of the arts, regularly enjoying the Guthrie Theater and Minneapolis Institute of Arts. Their adventurous spirits led them to travel the world, exploring dozens of countries. They were foundational supporters of humanitarian work in Nepal, and conservation efforts worldwide. Tom and Sue spent many happy decades exploring the lakes and trails of Northern Minnesota, at their cabin on Birch Lake near Ely.
Since joining the Susitna Rotary Club in 2022, Tom exemplified the motto "Service Above Self." He was a reliable volunteer at the annual Big Lake Library cleanup and brought warmth to every meeting with his kind words and gentle presence. Tom was known for his soft spot for any pets at gatherings and his obvious love for his family.
According to his youngest daughter and caretaker, Catherine Cheadle, "Dad was a kind, intelligent, can-do man with an unconditional love for Mom and us girls. His integrity, humor, and gentle good cheer will stay on as a spark in all of us."
His eldest daughter, Laura Inman, adds, "Dad was known for his sense of humor, integrity, and quiet strength. He was an inspiring example, and will live on in our hearts and memories."
Tom is survived by his daughters Laura Inman of New York and Catherine Cheadle of Alaska; son-in-law Rodger Cheadle of Alaska; and grandchildren David Ganjehlou and Michael Ganjehlou of New York.
Military honors will be held Wednesday, November 5th, at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minnesota, where Tom will be laid to rest beside his beloved Sue.
Tom's kindness, humor, and quiet leadership will live on in all who knew him. His example of service and generosity remains a guiding light for his family, friends, and all who shared his path awhile.
In memory, donations may be made to Friends of Dolpa, Nepal, at friendsofdolpa@gmail.com, continuing Tom's legacy of supporting humanitarian work.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Thomas Seelert Inman, please visit our flower store.