With deep respect and gratitude we celebrate the life and passing of Thomas Martin, 68, of Elmhurst, Il.
After a strong and courageous journey with pancreatic cancer, Tom passed on June 15, 2020. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Virginia Martin, formerly of Melrose Park and his brother David. He is survived with love and devotion by his wife and partner of 44+ years, Donna Martin (Fox); Bonnie, his beloved, adopted cat, Sue (Lou) Rodriguez, Stephen Martin, Joseph (Cathy) Martin. Douglas Fox (partner Lois), Steven (Jody Fox), Chris (Mick) Sawyer, Patti (Bill) Soutar, Mary (Mark Frigo), Lynda (Gene) Walker. Many nieces/nephews and great nieces/nephews.
Tom enjoyed a long and satisfying career in the printing industry, a career which- for a time- was shared side by side with his father-in-law. After working double duty: days at the office and nights down in the basement- Tom’s hard work earned him an early retirement. “Out with the old, in with the new,” Tom channeled his hard-core work ethic into the adventure of long distance bicycling and ultimately, to a business that all who know and love him came to cherish: Uncle Tom’s Treasures! With a knack for detail, an eagle eye and a spirit of exploration driven by a “find-save-redeem” value system, Uncle Tom’s biking ventures always yielded great returns on investments: gift cards, cash, Nike sweatshirts, jumping beans, random kid toys, unopened bottles of beer…his finds were endless and always came with a story from the master teller!
Tom was a rock: steady, strong and reliable, he faithfully abided all the ups and downs of two large families, and crafted a marriage that stood the test of time – a model to many. Kids have a way of wordlessly estimating a man’s character, and countless have loved him (cats, apparently, too!): they sensed his kind, caring, fun- loving spirit whenever they were around him.
Tom loved all things hockey- especially the Blackhawks – and loyally endured even the 50 year gap in Stanley Cup wins! Quick with a bit of excavated trivia, and always a jokester (yes -even knock knock jokes!), Tom was easy to talk to and loved by many. Today we feel the sting of a good man having passed – a devoted son, faithful husband, loyal friend and brother. We trust his love of adventure carries on – even as he does in our hearts. Go in peace and joy, Tom, and may you continue to find many treasures on your journey!
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Foundation, P.O. Box 1848, Longmont, CO 80502. Arrangements handled by Gibbons Funeral Home, Elmhurst. 630-832-0018 or www.gibbonsfuneralhome.com
**The Service will Livestream beginning Friday, June 19, 2020 at 10:30 a.m. – click here to view**
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81854216847
Meeting ID: 818 5421 6847
Alan Roman
Tom became a lifelong friend due to our mutual interests, I have lived in many states and our friendship never waned, when I was in town I would visit and enjoy our time together, he visited me in every state that I lived in. I will sorely miss our visits, with his humor always there. Rest in Peace my friend.
Ernesto Aranda
My thoughts and prayers are with you Tom even though you may not need them since you’re in heaven looking down on us. Ernie
Frank & Linda Broz
We send you our deepest sympathy. Tom was a great friend, always thoughtful and we cannot remember any time he was actually angry. We will miss him greatly and wish we could be there with you today. Love Frank & Linda Broz
Connie Nestler
I didn’t know Tom but my friendship with you, Donna, gave me a sense of him as a person. You were with him every step of his journey after diagnosis. You learned everything you could about the disease and treatment and advocated for him at every doctor visit and treatment. I’m sure he knew what a blessing you were to him for all you did. Your love for him was apparent and it helped him through his darkest moments. Your family is there for support now. They will help hold you up. Your friends, including me, will help support you when you are ready for us or need us. Love, Connie
Chris Dadabo
Donna-
I am one of the guys that met with your Tom and few other retired Allstate employees for pizza. I was so sorry to hear only recently of his passing. He was such a good sweet man. We loved him and will miss terribly. You and he will be in my prayers.
Love
Chris Dadabo