Obituary of Thomas Raymond O'Hare

Thomas Raymond O’Hare, affectionately known as Tom, passed away on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 3:33pm CT, at the age of 83. Born on March 25, 1941, on the South Side of Chicago, IL, to Helen and Raymond O’Hare, he lived a life full of passion, love, and dedication. Tom met the love of his life in college. He was a senior and Deanna was a freshman. Their love was undeniable, and they were married for 59 years.

Tom graduated from Marquette University, with a Bachelor’s in Marketing, where he was also a gifted gymnast and boxer. He proudly served in the Naval Air Reserves for six years and was a true patriot. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish O’Hare Sales Inc., an Industrial Manufacturing Rep company, where he served as Founder and President for over 40 years and represented over seven leading companies in the industry. Later, he brought his expertise to Wagner Companies, excelling as a top Account Sales Executive for more than a decade. Sales was his calling and passion, and he was the #1 Sales Rep at every company he represented.

Known for his warm and welcoming personality, Tom had a unique ability to make friends with everyone he met. He was a master storyteller with an inquisitive mind, always ready to share a joke, give encouragement, or impart a life lesson. His energy and zest for life were infectious, and he lived every moment to the fullest.

Tom was well-balanced in every aspect, finding the importance of maintaining his self-fulfillment and personal wellbeing equally as important as building his business. His interests were as diverse as his talents. He loved to fly and obtained his private pilot’s license. You could find him on the golf course every Saturday, playing the game he loved and embracing every moment. He enjoyed bowling, dancing, barbecuing, and being the life of the party. He had a strong drive, a never-give-up mentality, loved to compete, and loved even more to win! Tom’s adventurous spirit and excitement to learn new skills and technologies inspired everyone around him.

Above all, he cherished his family and took immense pride in being their provider and protector. Tom’s love for his wife, Deanna, and their four children and four grandchildren was unwavering. He was a fun and playful dad and grandfather. He kept his family laughing with his animated personality, silly facial expressions, and creative birthday songs. He loved traveling with his family at every opportunity, was a great listener and wise mentor. His legacy of love, generosity, enthusiasm, and sense of humor will be remembered by all who knew him.

Tom was deeply devoted to his faith, actively participating in his church community, Knights of Columbus, President of the Men's Club, and member of St. Vincent de Paul. His light, love, and laughter will be greatly missed, and his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife of over 59 years, Deanna, and their four children: daughter Charlynn (Felix), son Brian, daughter Kimberly, and son Kevin. He leaves behind four grandchildren: Alex, Alyssa, Nathaniel, and Grace. Tom is also survived by his brother Jim (Nan-deceased) and sister Maureen (Ted).

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, October 4, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. CT at St. Rita’s Catholic Church in Santa Rosa Beach, FL. A reception for immediate family and friends will follow. In lieu of flowers and gifts, please consider donating to our GoFundMe, In Memory of Tom O'Hare: Donations, to help Deanna with funeral expenses. 



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