Thomas John Smolich

Today (April 3rd, 2022), a new journey begins for a senate decorated, United States marine corps hero. The family of Thomas John Smolich(1943), of Waukegan, Sadly announces his passing on Sunday April 3rd at approximately 12:30pm CST. Tom was a loving, devoted son, husband, and father. As a TRUE combat...  see moreToday (April 3rd, 2022), a new journey begins for a senate decorated, United States marine corps hero. The family of Thomas John Smolich(1943), of Waukegan, Sadly announces his passing on Sunday April 3rd at approximately 12:30pm CST. Tom was a loving, devoted son, husband, and father. As a TRUE combat veteran of the Vietnam war, Sgt Smolich gave his blood sweat and tears repeatedly, and without hesitation. Throughout his life Tom gave unselfishly to many, including lifelong support of his beloved Corps, as a lover of animals and mentor to a younger generation through coaching and other life skills teaching. Tom could often be found giving sage advice to those who needed it, teaching proper marksmanship skills to future Marines and sharing memories of a life well lived. Tom had two very successful careers. He was a consummate technologist starting his post-war life in the computer field working for several Fortune 500 companies at a young age, while unknowingly passing on his talent for computers to his son William, who mirrored his fathers achievements in the same field. Tom then became a local agent and broker of several real estate firms in his hometown of Waukegan. Tom had an infectious sense of humor, loved taking care of his home and proudly displaying his love for his beloved Marine Corps and country, through his proud display flags, right up until the day he could no longer physically do it. Tom is survived and will be missed by those who TRULY loved him. This includes his son William (Katherine), grandson Matthew Thomas, and Maddie. He is preceded in death by his mother Sylvia - Waukegan, father August - Colorado, and sister Mary Blackman (Dick). Tom will be sorely missed by his family, friends, Marine Corps brothers and everyone whose lives he deeply impacted.