Thomas Francis Nee entered this world on August 22nd 1963 the youngest of four children of the late Virginia Frances (nee Parr) and Patrick James Nee of Chicago, Illinois. Tom did not have the chance to know his father, who passed away on April 14th 1964 when Tom was a mere seven months old. Affectionately known as Tommy by his lovely surviving wife Maria (nee Bernard), and brothers-in-law Raymond and Steven Bernard. Tommy is also the father of Ally (Alexandria Nicole Watkins [nee] Nee), his daughter from marriage to his former surviving spouse Kathy Nee (nee Ryan), and grandfather Papa T to his one-year-old grandson Brooks Michael Watkins, and son-in-law to Nick Watkins. Tom’s siblings in pecking order- Michael Patrick, spouse Serhii Kovalenko; Katie (Katherine) Lynn, spouse Mike Hobbs, and Ginna (Virginia) Ann, spouse Mark Radeke-mourn his untimely passing. Tom is fondly remembered by his nephews Ian Patrick and Quinn Francis (Godson) and niece Katherine Anne.
Thomas was challenged academically, suffering from dyslexia, but always had a love of music starting with the trumpet at Roosevelt Junior High in River Forest and band at OPRF high school and then progressing to the guitar which he truly loved. He especially enjoyed going to concerts and heavy metal music and visiting any bar with live shows. Tom was a hard worker rising early every day for 30 years laboring as a painter with the Illinois Tollway Authority until he retired in October, 2021. One of Tom’s good friends encapsulated him in these words as a fun, warm, life-loving person and special friend. Tom always liked to tell a good joke or antidote and always tried to see the best in people. He died suddenly at home when he just stopped breathing and his heart stopped. Now, Tommy’s soul is in God’s hands, but his loving spirit remains in our hearts and minds. Tom, a gentle giant, gone too soon. May he rest in peace and intercede on our behalf.
In lieu of flowers, a donation will be made on behalf of the family to Tommy’s favorite animal shelter charity. Celebration of Life – Saturday, April 20th. Visitation from 12-2PM followed by a memorial service at 2PM at the Pedersen Ryberg Funeral Home.
A reception will follow the conclusion of the service location TBD.
Interment will be private at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Hillside, IL. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Tommy, please visit the Sympathy Store.
