Daniel J. Thomas

Daniel "Dan" Thomas, a respected chemist and devoted family man, passed away on January 23, 2026, at Silver Cross Hospital at the age of 60. He was surrounded by his loving wife, his two daughters, and his two brothers. Dan fought a lifelong battle with Type 1 Diabetes with quiet strength and dignity. A longtime resident of Lockport, Illinois, he will be remembered for his technical brilliance, strong work ethic, and unwavering love for his family.

Born on August 27, 1965, to Edward G. and Catherine E. Thomas (née Hanrahan), Dan was one of six children raised in a close-knit family. He earned his degree in Chemistry from the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) and went on to build a distinguished career in the coatings industry. He spent five years with Sherwin-Williams' automotive division before joining PPG Industrial Coatings in 2000, where he worked for more than 17 years. At PPG, Dan was a valued Research & Development Chemist known for his expertise in solvent and waterborne formulations and his support of sales, manufacturing, and quality control teams.

In November 1997, Dan married Laurie (Haas) Thomas, and together they shared more than 28 years of marriage. He was a proud and loving father to his daughters, Natalie and Gabrielle, who were the center of his world.

Dan is survived by his beloved wife, Laurie; his daughters, Natalie and Gabrielle; his siblings, Eileen (Steve) Kitsu, William (the late Judy Ann) Thomas, Mary (the late John) Palmer, Edward Thomas, and Cathleen Thomas-Mattingly; his close cousin, Peggy Kondor; and his cherished dog, Lucy. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Catherine, and by his beloved dog, Molly. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Breakthrough Type 1 Diabetes (formerly Breakthrough Type 1 Diabetes (Formerly JDRF)) in support of research and a cure for Type 1 Diabetes.

In accordance with Dan's wishes, services and interment will be private and limited to immediate family.