Tom (William Thomas) Huyck

Tom (William Thomas) Huyck, lawyer and long-time Hyde Park resident, passed away peacefully in his sleep July 10 after a long illness. He was 77.

A native of Des Moines, Iowa, and graduate of the University of Chicago Law School, Tom practiced civil and criminal law in Chicago for nearly 50 years, first as a prosecutor in the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Attorney’s office, and later in private practice with a specialty in employment law and litigation, a career he once described as a long series of interesting cases. In 1984, he successfully argued a case before the Supreme Court (Liparota v. United States). Tom was passionate about civil justice and clear language, and his skill, dedication, kindness, and patience were appreciated by clients from all walks of life.

Tom met his wife Margaret in a high school play and they began dating in college, when he was at Dartmouth and she was at Vassar. In 1961, the couple moved to Hyde Park, where they both attended the University of Chicago, Tom earning a law degree and Margaret a doctorate in psychology. They have lived in Hyde Park ever since. Tom had a lifelong love of jazz and music of all kinds and was an active patron of the arts. He was a familiar face at theaters and concerts and served on the boards of the Chicago Children’s Choir and Chicago a Capella. Tom was an enthusiastic cyclist, often biking to his office downtown. He loved to travel and to host foreign visitors and show them the city. Tom was an early and strong supporter of civil and women’s rights, and an eloquent advocate for justice in all walks of life.

Tom is survived by his wife of 54 years, Margaret, daughters Liz and Karin, granddaughter Madeline, a wide and loving family, and countless friends who will miss his gentle spirit and unfailing sense of humor.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made in Tom’s name to the ACLU or the Chicago Children’s Choir.

Hear Tom argue before the Supreme Court in 1984 (click here)