FARGO — The Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks mourn the loss of their beloved owner Bruce Thom, who passed away on Friday, January 2, 2023, at the age of 83. The independent baseball club announced his death on Saturday, marking the end of his remarkable stewardship since the team’s founding season in 1996.
Thom, who led the franchise to six league championships, was widely recognized as a pioneer and driven leader. Doug Simunic, the former RedHawks manager who served 22 seasons with the team, reflected on Thom’s immense influence: “He was the George Steinbrenner of independent baseball and he loved it. He loved to motivate and the day-to-day operation of it.”
Under his guidance, the RedHawks flourished, moving from the Northern League to the American Association and winning championships along the way. Thom also secured the future of the team when he headed a local investor group to purchase it from Otter Tail Corporation back in 2004, having previously served as team president.
Simunic acknowledged Thom's impact not just on the field, but personally as well. “The bottom line, he treated me well with the contracts and the amount of time I worked with him,” Simunic said, expressing gratitude for the retirement of his No. 33 jersey during the 2023 season, which he called “special.” Brad Thom, Bruce's son, now serves as the team president and CEO. “Dad’s legacy will be forever remembered with the RedHawks,” he stated. “We will continue to uphold the highest standards and winning tradition he set for RedHawks baseball.”
Thom was instrumental in bringing on significant figures, including former Los Angeles Dodgers legend Maury Wills, who served as the team's analyst on radio broadcasts. Jack Michaels, the longtime radio voice of the RedHawks, credited Thom with providing transformative opportunities. “He’s a winner. He always wanted the best out of you. He was a man who had visions and dreams and goals,” Michaels said.
The RedHawks’ history reflects Thom’s dedication to community and excellence. With championships clinched in 1998, 2003, 2006, 2009, 2010, and 2022, the franchise became synonymous with local pride. “Winning was extremely important to him, especially winning at home,” Brad Thom added, sharing insights on his father's perspective. “He wanted to give a good product on the field for home fans. He always said a win at home was worth two on the road.”
A memorial service for Bruce Thom is scheduled for Friday, January 10, at 2 p.m. at Olivet Lutheran Church, allowing the community to gather and celebrate the life of man whose heart matched his tough exterior. “He really had a big heart with a tough exterior on the outside. He was a sweetheart when it came to caring about people,” Brad remarked, emphasizing the warmth behind his father’s business acumen.
The impact Bruce Thom had on the Fargo-Moorhead community extends beyond the ballpark. His commitment to making baseball accessible and enjoyable for all was born from cherished childhood memories of attending games. These experiences drove his vision to create affordable, family-friendly baseball under the banner of the RedHawks.
Despite initial skepticism from many about the new team’s viability, his fervor yielded results, as the RedHawks successfully repaid every cent of the City of Fargo’s investment toward Newman Outdoor Field. His dedication cemented the team as a lasting pillar of the local sports community. “You can’t sit here in your office and know what’s going on upstairs,” Thom once told The Forum, advocating for connection with fans and grassroots enthusiasm.
The RedHawks will honor Bruce Thom’s legacy throughout their 30th season, which commenced plans for 2025. His story is woven deeply within the fabric of independent baseball, and as such, his vision, dreams, and drive will endure for generations of fans and players alike. Bruce Thom’s contributions to the RedHawks—and independent baseball—will not be forgotten, as tributes continue to pour in from friends, family, and the baseball community.