Tom Berg, the owner and chief brewing officer of Northeast Minneapolis’ Falling Knife Brewing Company, passed away unexpectedly over the weekend, leaving a profound void in the hearts of those who knew him and the community he passionately served.
The news was confirmed by the brewery on Monday, as they shared the heartbreaking announcement that Berg had died at his home. In a poignant Facebook post, Falling Knife expressed their grief, stating, “We are devastated to lose our dear friend, the visionary architect of what Falling Knife brews, and a guiding force in what we are and do.” The establishment closed its doors on Monday to allow staff and patrons to collectively mourn this monumental loss, affirming the impact Berg had on their lives and operations.
Tom Berg was not just a master brewer; he was an integral part of the Minneapolis landscape, an embodiment of community spirit. As the chief architect of Falling Knife’s innovative beer offerings, he was known for his remarkable ability to craft unique and flavorful brews that appealed to both casual beer drinkers and connoisseurs alike. His dedication to the craft of brewing was matched only by his love for the people who enjoyed his creations. Falling Knife was more than just a brewery; it was a reflection of Berg’s vision and commitment to fostering connections among community members. As a testament to this, the business announced that plans for a larger gathering in remembrance of Berg would be made public at a later date, showcasing the collective desire to honor his legacy.
In addition to his brewing expertise, Berg was a well-known figure in the Minnesota sports community, celebrated especially for his die-hard passion for the Minnesota Timberwolves. He regularly hosted lively watch parties at Falling Knife, where friends and fans would gather to cheer on their favorite team. Berg’s infectious enthusiasm for basketball created an approachable and fun atmosphere, making the brewery a go-to spot for Timberwolves fans to share their love of the game.
Beyond brewing and sports, Berg held a deep appreciation for music that resonated throughout Minneapolis. His presence in the local music scene was substantial, where he cultivated friendships with artists, fans, and local venues alike. He was known to frequent concerts and shows, sharing his love for music with anyone who crossed his path. It was said that “there was nobody more passionate about Falling Knife, beer, and his friends,” capturing the essence of a man who embraced every opportunity to bring joy to others.
Friends and patrons alike remember the warmth and charisma with which Berg embraced everyone he met. As Falling Knife shared, “If you ran into him in the taproom during a Wolves game, at a show celebrating his love of music, or out at one of his favorite spots in town, you were immediately wrapped up in his warm personality as he welcomed you as he would his closest friends.” This heartening openness is what made Berg not just a business owner but a beloved figure in the community whose connections with people were deep and genuine.
While details surrounding the circumstances of Berg’s death remain undisclosed, the outpouring of love and sorrow signifies the impact he had on the lives of so many. His legacy, marked by his contributions to the beer industry, the sports he adored, and the connections he nurtured in the music scene, will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of friends, family, and patrons of Falling Knife Brewing Company. In this moment of collective mourning, the community reflects on the indelible mark left by Tom Berg, a true luminary whose passion for life lifted everyone around him.