Thomas Wagner

Thomas J. Wagner, a cherished patriarch, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2024, at the age of 87 in Naperville, Illinois. Born on November 8, 1937, in Chicago, Illinois, Tom was a man whose life was defined by his adventurous spirit, loving heart, and courageous character.

Tom's life journey began as a graduate of St. Mel High School, after which he proudly served his country by enlisting in the United States Navy. Tom was stationed in Hawaii, where he maintained hydraulics on Sky Raiders.   Following his military service, he embarked on a fulfilling career in the Printing Industry, where he dedicated many years of hard work and passion.

In May of 1963, Tom married Kathryn Kelleher, with whom he shared 18 years of marriage and raised four children. Although they found it necessary to part ways, they remained friends and shared many Holidays and Celebrations together.

In September of 1991, Tom found love once again and married Linda, who stood by his side as his devoted partner until his last days. Together, they created a blended family filled with love and mutual respect.

Tom was a loving father to Thomas Michael (Carie) Wagner, Steven Paul (Karin) Wagner, Curt Gerard (Keya) Wagner, Laurie Anne (Paul) Gauger, and step-daughter Vikki Graf. Each of his children inherited his zest for life and his unyielding strength. As a grandfather, he doted on his grandchildren, Tessa (Tyler) Walvort , Thomas John "TJ" (Bailey) Wagner, Imerson, Gryer, Paige, Alec Wagner, Rebecca, Stephanie Gauger, Sammantha, and Harley Graf. His legacy continued to grow with his great-grandchildren, Tristan Walvort, Emily, Geoffrey Graf and Zayden Graf, who brought immense joy and laughter to life.

Tom's siblings, Jean (the late Frank) Appuzo, Joyce Wagner, Judy (Ted) Zlatic, and Lynn Bosco, will remember him as the brother who always led by example and provided unwavering support. Family was always the most important thing to Tom.

 His love for his family extended to his cherished grand puppies, Lulu, Flash, Tucker, Walter Payton, Buster, and Romeo.  Tom enjoyed his time with them all.

An avid outdoorsman, Tom relished his time fishing in the serene waters of Canada and the Northwest Territory, as well as ice fishing with his buddies at Lake Delton. His love for golfing and playing cards were matched only by his enjoyment of cooking and watching the History Channel, where he indulged in his fascination with the past. Also, he loved his work riding the bus and helping the children as an aide, hosting veterans on holidays and special occasions, and his work obtaining food from local businesses for the food pantry. Tom enjoyed his bartender job at Barnaby's Pizzeria in Rosemont as the owner shared his Cub season tickets, which Tom shared with his children and friends. His love for aviation carried on throughout the rest of his life. He supported the Warbirds of America, and enjoyed the annual EAA convention in Oshkosh. Those were among his fondest memories.

Tom will be remembered for the way he embraced life's adventures and for the courage with which he faced every challenge. Tom loved the Lord. A devout Catholic, his faith was the catalyst that influenced the course of his life. Above all, he strived to live a life pleasing to God. His love for his family was evident in every action and decision he made. His presence will be profoundly missed, yet his spirit will continue to inspire those who knew him.

Tom will be buried alongside his parents at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in River Grove on Friday, June 6, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. with Military Honors.  

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