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