Thomas Alan Blecha, 62 of Valparaiso, IN, formerly of Plainfield, IL, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, August 6, 2023. He was born on April 22, 1961, in Chicago, IL to Robert and Betty (Gregor) Blecha. Tom graduated from Morton West High School in Berwyn, IL where he was a talented quarterback. He proudly began his career as a Firefighter and Paramedic with the Oak Park Fire Department in March of 1988, was promoted to Lieutenant in March of 2006 and retired from the department in March of 2015. Tom enjoyed playing softball throughout his youth and into early adulthood. In retirement, he was fond of classic cars, tending to his lawn, trees, and flowers, going to the gym, and spending time with his dogs. Tom loved his family more than anything and put them above all else. He will be remembered as a loving and devoted husband and father who will be dearly missed.
On April 27, 1991, in Lisle, IL, Tom married the love of his life, Tracy Clay, who survives, along with their children: Michael Blecha of Denver, CO and Mackenzie Blecha of Lisle, IL; his mother, Betty Blecha of Romeoville, IL; brother, Rob (Donna) Blecha; sister, Jill Gregor; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Blecha.
A Celebration of Tom’s Life will be announced at a later date.
GUESTBOOK
Tracy, I am so sorry to hear of your husband's passing. My deepest sympathies to you and your kids as you forge ahead. I know the emptiness you are feeling. Grief is love with no place to go. Please know that you have many friends who are here for you. Much love, -Marcene Farley
I am so very sorry for this tremendous loss to your family. -Gail Conforti
My thoughts and prayers to the Blecha family. Tom was a true leader in Oak Park Local 95. We lost a great leader when he retired. He was one of those guys that that got a ton of respect and when he walked in the room you felt his presence. It’s hard to believe he’s passed on. The world lost a great man, and I give my sincerest condolences to his family. I won’t forget everything he did for me in Local 95. God Speed Tom……… -William Towler
I am so sorry, Tracy. I am keeping you and your kids in my prayers. Your children and your multitude of friends will help you through this. -Joan Downing
Words can not express my sorrow. He meant so much to me and his friendship will forever be cherished. After texting him last week I was so excited to finally get up north for a visit. Makes us all realize we can't wait to spend time with the ones we care for. He will forever be missed. Please reach out to me if anything is ever needed. Rest in Peace my friend. -Gregory Firtik
I knew Tom best from playing together on the Gappers softball team. He was a veteran player with excellent hands and big time power. Solid as a rock. Always cool under pressure. A great teammate and even better person. Played many years together. Won more than our share of tournaments , advanced to many A.S A national tournaments and U.S.S.S.A World and State tournaments. I Always felf better and more confident when he was there and in the line up. Tom, ill see you in the lineup on the other side someday. And that defense better cover that right field line because you own it. -Wally Glisson
Tracy .... there are no words .... I know exactly how you are feeling. I lost my Tom on April 21st ... and he was my everything ... so, yeah ....
Hugs, my friend .... I am thinking about you constantly right now ... Prayers sent your way .... -Cindy Mackinnon
My dear friend Tracy, Mac and Mike - Steve and I are praying for you all. We are very saddened by the loss of Tom, and know his death will impact your family greatly. We are awfully sorry for your loss. Much love to each of you. -Janelle & Steve Pitula
Tracy, So sorry to hear of Tom's passing. Tom was an outstanding fireman. He served the members of Local 95 admirably, his great leadership will never be forgotten. He was a mentor and friend to many on the department. May Tom Rest in Peace. -Steve Rose
To Tracy and family, I worked with Tom for many years on the Oak Park Fire Department. I new Tom as a good firefighter and a good man. He was level headed and smart, you could tell right away he was going to be a leader. But what I really liked about Tom was his laugh, smile and sense of humor. I know you will miss him very much but please know there are so many others who will miss him too. -James Duffy
Sorry that you've lost this good man so soon. -Barbara Payne
Kelly and I are so sorry for your loss.. I never met your dad but I heard you talk about him at Kendra Scott and I know he was an awesome dad.. our thoughts and prayers are with your family as you grieve. -Karen Hospodka
Tracy - Len and I are so sorry to hear about Tom. We are thinking about you and your family and sending our love and prayers. -The Pawlowski’s
