MASON CITY — Tom L. Zea, 76, a longtime Mason City resident and retired railroad worker who treasured his family, friendships, automobiles and trips to Colorado, died Friday, November 6, 2026, at his home.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, November 17, 2026, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 N. Pennsylvania Avenue in Mason City. A time of sharing memories will begin at 5:30 p.m. No additional funeral or burial services were announced.
Born June 2, 1950, in Mason City, Tom was the son of Lowell and Ruby (Childers) Zea. He grew up in the community and graduated from Mason City High School in 1968.
Following high school, Tom ventured west, spending time in Colorado, a state that would remain special to him throughout his life. The mountain scenery and outdoor opportunities drew him back for many memorable visits over the years.
Tom began a lengthy railroad career in 1975, initially working in track maintenance for Chicago and North Western Railway before continuing with Union Pacific. His 35 years on the railroad brought not only steady work but also lasting friendships with the people alongside whom he worked. He retired in 2010.
On October 12, 1985, Tom married Marlene Quayle at First United Methodist Church in Mason City. Together, they built a family that included their daughter, Rachel.
Although naturally quiet and reserved, Tom was deeply caring and never left those closest to him wondering how much they meant to him. His family remained central to his life, and the arrival of his grandson, Sage, brought him the happiness of becoming a proud and devoted grandfather.
Tom had a lifelong enthusiasm for automobiles. He enjoyed reading car magazines, attending car shows and spending time around vehicles. His interest even extended to driving for Ford in Mason City.
An active person who appreciated the outdoors, Tom enjoyed walking, hiking and spending time in Colorado. Cabin getaways with Marlene, Rachel, Ben and Sage became especially meaningful family experiences.
Closer to home, he enjoyed the familiar company of friends at Ransom’s Bar, where weekend visits gave him an opportunity to relax and catch up with people he knew.
Following a lung cancer diagnosis in 2022, Tom also developed a particular fondness for malts from Awe’z Sandwich Shop, a simple pleasure that became part of his later years.
Through life’s challenges, Tom remained a man of quiet resilience and genuine affection for his loved ones. His family and friends will remember his steady presence, caring nature and the many experiences they shared.
Tom is survived by his wife, Marlene; daughter, Rachel (Ben) Moorehead; grandson, Sage; cousins, Susan, Debbie, Lynette, Jackie and Chris; brothers-in-law, Al and Ray; sisters-in-law, Cindy, Deb and Kay; and aunt, Maxine.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lowell and Ruby Zea; stepson, Randy; his grandparents; and his parents-in-law, Morrie and Pearl Quayle.
Family and friends may share memories and condolences through Major Erickson Funeral Home and Crematory, which is assisting with arrangements.
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