Thomas J. Bednarz

Thomas J. Bednarz, son of the late John and Julie Bednarz, a loving husband, father, grandfather,
passed away from cancer on June 21, 2024. Born on September 28, 1942, in Chicago, IL, Tom
grew up in Elmwood Park, lived a long time in Addison and most recently called Bloomingdale,
IL, home.
Tom is survived by his loving wife Diane née Caliendo, his two wonderful daughters, Corrine
(Joseph) and Denise, his grandkids, Anthony, Geena, Julianna, and Nicole, his brother Bob
(Mary) and nieces and nephews.
Tom was married for over 58 years to Diane, loving her unconditionally, supporting her business,
creating memories, going to casinos, trips to Florida and Las Vegas, and living life to the fullest.
Tom loved watching 6:30 PM “Wheel of Fortune” with Diane and family and was a huge fan of
“Jeopardy”. And let’s not forget his love for his wife’s cooking—it was his favorite.
Tom shared an extraordinary bond with his two daughters, Denise and Corrine, a connection that
many hope for and aspire to. It was the kind of connection every parent dreams of having with
their kids—full of love, laughter, and an unbreakable bond.
Tom could often be found at the casino, at the airport ready for his next trip, on the golf course,
going to the racetrack, or relaxing in Florida. Tom loved John’s pizza, and a trip to Gene and
Jude’s. In addition to his love of golf and horse racing, Tom loved football, baseball and more
recently watching ice hockey. Tom played basketball all four years of high school. He had a
thirst for knowledge, loved puzzles, reading a good book, and read more books than most people
ever do. You could always find a piece of candy or two in his pocket and empty wrappers around
the house. But nothing made him happier than spending time with his grandkids. Tom was at
every sporting event, school event, driving the kids wherever they needed to go, or just stopping
by for five minutes to see the kids.
Tom often reminisced about the house at the Geneva National Golf Course, calling it the "best
ten years of his life." It was not uncommon for people to request Tom’s presence in their
foursomes or have his favorite drink ready for him when he walked into the club house. Tom also
cherished his lifelong friends from high school, work, the golf course, and the many new friends
he made along the way.
Tom served honorably in the U.S. Army and then began working for American Airlines. After 35
years with American Airlines, Tom retired, but he never slowed down. He had four
grandchildren, Nicole, Anthony, Geena, and Julianna, and made each one feel like they were his
absolute favorite. He was more than a grandpa; he was a great friend—funny, supportive, and
always there to chat. He was always there for some laughs, to listen, and to give you a hard time.
He made sure all his kids and grandkids were well taken care of at all times and would drop
anything for whatever they needed. You always knew you had Grandpa in your corner. He really
was the absolute best grandpa you could ever get, and he would never hesitate to let the kids, and
everyone know how proud he was of them. Tom is an irreplaceable person in our lives- Ask
anyone who knew Tom, and you'll be flooded with endless laughter and stories. His humor and
wit were legendary, turning everyday moments into memorable stories that we will never stop
sharing.
He will be deeply missed by his family and many friends.
A memorial will be held Salerno’s Rosedale Chapel, 450 W Lake St, Roselle, IL 60172,
Wednesday June 26th , from 9 am-1pm.