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Thomas Keck Obituary
Tom graduated from St. Ignatius High School in Chicago, and after service in the Army, he went on to receive his MS in Higher Mathematics from the University of Oklahoma-Tulsa. He moved to Alaska in 1960 and began teaching high school math in the towns of Kodiak and Cordova, Alaska. Tom discovered that many of his students made more money fishing during the summers, than he did teaching, and he decided to become a commercial fishermen. He built a cabin in a remote area of Uyak Bay, Kodiak, and founded a successful commercial fishing business named Greenbanks, which he managed from 1961-1986. Greenbanks was one of the largest fishing operations of its type in Alaska. After selling Greenbanks, he turned his attention to developing his painting and general contracting business, Keck & Co, in Elmhurst IL. Tom took great pride in restoring homes to their original grandeur, earning praise and loyalty from customers spanning DuPage, Lake, Will and Cook counties. His eye for detail and color matching was exceptional. In his spare time, he channeled his drive into the creation of stain glass art and the cultivation of a horticultural paradise at his Oak Brook home. Over many years, Tom imported ornamental grasses, seeds and trees from around the world and laboriously churned dirt, planted and pruned to create a spectacular floral sanctuary. Without fail, he could name every tree, plant and bird that flourished on his property. His garden was enjoyed by all--including the deer -- to his great chagrin! In addition to gardening, Tom loved travel, reading, telling colorful stories, politics, and lively debate with friends.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents, and his two brothers, Bill Keck and John Keck. He leaves behind his wife, Jan Berg Keck (nee Rauch); six step children including Peter (Martha), John (Shannon), Patty, James (Carmen), Matthew (Veronika), Kristin; 15 grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
Thomas Keck's funeral will take place Saturday, March 13th at 10am at Visitation Catholic Church, 779 S. York Road, Elmhurst IL 60126. Guests are welcome to arrive at 9am for prayer and visitation in the Fireplace Room at Visitation Church.
Arrangements entrusted by Marin Funeral Home, 2744 W. 51st Street, Chicago, IL 60632 for more info 773-436-2746 or marinfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Keck
2 Entries
Richard Ferris
February 15, 2022
I just Learned that Tom passed away last year. We were good friends and played together as youngsters as we both lived in Hyde Park and went to St Thomas Apostle grade school. We lost touch as my family moved to Northern Virginia in `51. He was a fine fellow who I remember well.
Tony Roeder
March 9, 2021
Condolences to Janet and the Berg family. We´ve all lost a larger than life man. Tom taught and trained many young people their trades in construction and fisheries in Alaska. I had the privilege to be one of those people from the Chicago area who experienced both. My childhood, Jack London inspired, dreams of being in the wilderness were fulfilled beyond those dreams. He also trained me in the trades and inspired and modeled the pursuit of excellence and pride in a job well done. Thank you TK! Here´s to Tom and for being a better person for knowing him. "It´s a beautiful day in Uyak Bay! Let´s hit it!!"
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