Tom Pignotti

Visitation

Jan 28, 2021

Biography

Tom Pignotti, age 80 of Itasca, Illinois, passed away on Friday, January 22, 2021. He was the husband of Eileen nee DiMascio for over 58 years; loving dad of Roxann (Phil) Doherty and Michelle (Paul) Kobielus; cherished grandpa to Austen Doherty (girlfriend Katie) and Collin Doherty (girlfriend Alyssa). Beloved brother-in-law of Marilyn (Willie) Ratoft, and late sister-in-law Paula (Jack) Camilleri. He was loved by many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, father, sister. Tom was born in Chicago Heights, Illinois, and grew up in the Italian-American neighborhood where he attended Bloom Township High School and went on to be a member of the first class at Prairie State College. During this time, he met the love of his life, Eileen. They married in 1962 and had their first daughter, Roxann, the following year and their second daughter, Michelle “Shelly”, 7 years later. Tom and his family spent many years traveling across the country, camping at national parks. One of his favorite national parks was Yellowstone. He often told the story of his trip with Eileen when they witnessed the fires of ’88. In his loving patriarchal way, Tom was the one who always strived to make sure the whole family gathered under one roof to enjoy annual family vacations and spend the most quality time possible with one another. His daughters’ will forever remember Dad’s laughter, support and loyalty. When they were young, Tom was always there cheering them on from the stands at games and marching band competitions. He and Eileen taught them both to be independent, honest, true to themselves and others; and to remember wealth is not about money or material objects, but about family and friends, building relationships and being there for each other. “Pops” never hesitated to accept an invitation to spend time with his sons-in-law whether around the house or vacations. Although not a fisherman himself, he enjoyed watching them fish, even when it was just offering friendly banter while they waited for a bite. His grandchildren are left with many lasting memories of walks, vacations, discussions, and soccer. Gramps was always there. Even their Typhoon soccer friends fondly refer to Tom as “Gramps,” one of their biggest fans. He seldom missed a game or any other big team event. He cherished all the time he had with his family. Like only the most dedicated Cubs fans, he could often be heard coaching the umpires from his living room chair and cheering them onto victory during the 2016 World Series, their only in his lifetime. He liked to show his support for not only his favorite baseball team, but Tom also wore hats of his other favorites: the Blackhawks, Typhoons, and Ranger Outdoors. Some of Tom’s other favorite hobbies included strolling through Springbrook Nature Center or any other opportunity to enjoy wildlife, especially wolves and eagles. Even as a young boy, Tom had a nurturing heart for all animals. He also enjoyed a leisurely walk through the zoo, pontoon boat rides with family and working on a puzzle from time to time. While Tom was always up for the occasional trip to a good buffet, his favorite place to eat was at home with his family enjoying one of his beloved Eileen’s delicious homemade lasagna meals. Visitation will be on Thursday morning from 9:00 - 11:30 a.m. at The Oaks Funeral Home, 1201 Irving Park Road, Itasca, IL. Funeral services will follow immediately after, proceeding to St. Peter Church, Itasca, for Mass at Noon. A private burial will take place at a later date. The arrangements are in the care of The Oaks Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be considered for the National Park Conservation Association 777 6th Street NW, Suite 700 Washington DC 20001 www.npca.org