Chicago, Illinois – The community is mourning the loss of Thomas Richard Kalas, affectionately known as Tom, who passed away on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at the age of 62. Tom, a beloved figure in the community, had battled heart issues for years and tragically passed away following complications after a heart surgery.
Born on June 23, 1962, in Chicago, Tom’s legacy is one of generosity, humor, and community service. He is survived by his wife, Maureen Kalas, and his children, Marie Kalas and Thomas Kalas. His dedication to his family, friends, and the wider community will be remembered by all who knew him.
Tom’s professional career was marked by his service as a Village Trustee in Berkeley, Illinois, from 1996 to 2003. Known for his problem-solving skills and a deep commitment to helping others, Tom left a lasting impact on the people he worked with and those he served.
A man of many passions, Tom was a dedicated softball and basketball coach and loved to mentor young athletes. His quick wit shone through his love for improv comedy, and he was known for bringing laughter to any room he entered. He was also an avid Chicago White Sox fan, and fittingly, the team celebrated back-to-back victories on the day of his passing and the day after.
To honor his memory, a visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at Modell Funeral Home in Darien, Illinois, followed by a funeral mass on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at St. Mary of Gostyn Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Catholic Education Fund for the Diocese of Joliet.
Facebook Tributes to Thomas Richard Kalas
Marie Kalas shared the heartbreaking news of her father’s passing on Facebook, saying, "My larger-than-life dad, Tom Kalas, passed away on Saturday afternoon. Dad had been struggling with heart issues for years, and after a successful heart operation on Thursday, his body took a turn late Thursday night and was put on life support Friday morning. It all went so fast, and as you might imagine, our family is heartbroken."
Support poured in from friends and loved ones, including:
- Kristin Smith: "I’m so sorry for your loss, Marie."
- Asia Robinson: "Marie, I’m sending you and your family my love and prayers."
- Mike Federico: "So sorry for your loss, Marie. Your dad was a great guy."
- Robin Devitt: "So sorry. He was a great loving person that is for sure."
- Karli Bonges: "Oh my gosh Marie! I’m so incredibly sorry to hear this… Thinking of you and your family."
- Benjamin Huang: "Oh goodness, to hear that it happened all so fast. I’m so sorry to you and your family. May your beloved dad rest in peace."
- Nancy Formanski: "I am so sorry for your great loss, Marie. Sending prayers for you and your family."
- Christine Maurer: "My heart is broken for you all."
- Bill Riley: "Love you guys! Your Dad and I were the best of friends for over 50 years. What a legacy he left. He was always so proud of you and adored his family more than you can ever imagine! He loved each of his friends with such a great passion! I will never forget him! RIP."
- Margo Lang: "So so sorry for your loss. Keeping you all in my prayers."
Tom’s legacy of love, humor, and dedication will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be greatly missed.