Thomas Anthony Camp

Thomas (Tom, Tommy) Anthony Camp, 74, of Plainfield, Illinois, passed away of bile duct cancer on July 2, 2024 at a health center in Naperville, Illinois.

He was born into this life on July 29, 1949 in Chicago, Illinois and spent his childhood in Berkeley, and later, Elmhurst, Naperville, and most recently Plainfield, Illinois.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Laura Irene Camp, Father, Thomas Auriel Camp, Mother-in-Law, Eleanor Slavik, Father-in-Law Calvin Slavik, Sister-in-Law, Bonnie Jean Camp, many beloved uncles and aunts of the Camp/Campolattara, Ludington, Slavik, and Kabelis families, cousins Richard Camp, Michael Campolattara, Tobias Campolattara, Step-grandchildren Adam Cappello, Anastasia Cappello, and life-long friends Patrick Hohe and Michael Hohe.

Tom leaves behind his beloved wife Patricia Marie Camp, nee Slavik, adored sons Michael Anthony Camp (Clara Cappello), Daniel Gregory Camp (Brandi), and Thomas Patrick Camp, Step-Granddaughters Ava Nassenstein and Lia Nassenstein. Brother James Camp, Sister Laura Gerlach (Larry), Aunt Rita Cole, Mother-in-Law Susan Slavik, Sister-in-Law Donna De Simone (Sam), Brother-in-Law Danny Slavik (Lesley), cousins from the Camp/Campolattara, Ludington, Slavik, and Kabelis families, countless nephews, nieces, life-long friends, neighbors, RC flying buddies, former co-workers/friends from retired ATA airlines and others, and his Beagle buddy, Rollie.

Tom attended St. Domitilla Elementary School, St. Joseph High School, and Lewis University where he received his A&P Aircraft Maintenance License.

He was a hard-working man and dedicated to his family and work. In his airline career, he worked for several airlines at both O'Hare and Midway, most notably TWA and ATA (American Trans Air) where throughout the years, he earned the professional titles of A&P Maintenance Mechanic, Supervisor, and MDW Maintenance Manager. Tom was a top-notch mechanic and his work ethic was unmatched. Throughout the years, he received numerous awards and commendations. He had many co-worker friends.

Tom's love for all of his family members was undeniable. Everything he did was for his family whom he loved very much. He was a caring and thoughtful person. When his boys were young, he became a Cub Scout Leader, which allowed him more time in their lives. He also was a flight instructor and taught students how to fly RC model airplanes in his beloved club, Prop Masters of Naperville. He was a past President of the club for many years and had many good friends who will miss him dearly.

Tom's love of airplanes started as a child and was undeniable. So much that he chose to make it his career. He had great problem-solving abilities. This, combined with his mechanical ingenuity, allowed him to be able to repair many things. He was forever showing his kids how to fix things and was always helping neighbors and friends. He was somewhat meek to receive recognition for the awards he had gotten or the people he helped because he only did things out of the goodness of his heart.

Tom did believe in God and was blessed with a beautiful family and life. He lived his life the way he wanted to. Tom and his wife adored each other. They were married 49 years. He was a loving husband and father to his three sons. A good, honest man that stood up for what he believed in and never stopped fighting for what was right. Tom was someone you could count on. A man of simple means that found joy in being with his family, flying his RC planes, going out for ice cream, wearing vintage flannel shirts, listening to music (especially metal and rock), going to concerts, watching NASCAR, and cooking for his wife and family. An animal lover.

We miss you, Tom! You left us so unexpectedly! You helped shape us and we are better people because of your influence. You will always have the love of your family and we will never forget the sacrifices you made for us. We love you with all out hearts!

A private burial ceremony will be held with family.

The flying of Tom's last plane (an ATA replica), once completed by his Prop Masters club members, will take place at the Springbrook Prairie Model Aircraft Field in Naperville. Date to be announced.

Celebration of Life: Sunday, August 25th We will be gathering to share our

favorite memories, our stories, to laugh, to cry and remember this wonderful man who is greatly missed. Feel free to stop by between 11:00 - 3:00 at Gatto's Italian Restaurant, 5123 Main Street in Downers Grove for small plates and drinks.