Thomas D. Ahern

Thomas Daniel Ahern

June 9, 1930 – March 1, 2026

Tom was born in Duluth, Minnesota, to Ruth and Robert Ahern. He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Jane (Bill) Toon, Robert, Doe (John) Thackston, and Jim; and his beloved wife, Jane.

He is survived by his children, Nancy (Tony) Ryan, Bob (Caryn) Ahern, Patty (Scott) Baxendale, and Jenny (John) Birmingham. He was the very proud and devoted PopPop to his ten grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him immense joy.

Tom grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio. He graduated from Purcell High School and went on to attend the University of Notre Dame. An avid sports fan, he was a loyal follower of the Cincinnati Bengals and Reds and always cheered the Fighting Irish on to victory.

After college, Tom entered the military and proudly served in the Honor Guard during the Korean War. Upon returning home, he began his career with the H.A. Seinsheimer Company in Cincinnati, where he oversaw the manufacturing and production of men's suits. His work often took him to New York, where he went on a first date with the love of his life, Jane. They married in 1961 and built their life together in Mt. Lookout, Ohio.

Tom loved golf and spent many happy hours at Hyde Park Country Club, where he and his brother and best friend, Jim, were Founders Cup champions for two consecutive years. While raising their four children, Tom and Jane enjoyed an active social life filled with charity events, holiday parties, Bengals tailgates, and treasured trips to Siesta Key, Florida, with family and friends.

In 1978, Tom's career brought the family to Chicago, where he joined Hart Schaffner & Marx. They settled in Northbrook, Illinois, and formed lifelong friendships with a close group affectionately known as the "Chester Keepers," sharing years of laughter and annual trips to Minocqua, Wisconsin.

While in Chicago, Tom became an enthusiastic fan of the Bears and Cubs and remained a devoted follower of professional golf. He enjoyed playing in his local golf league, the GNAT, and treasured his weekly rounds at Sportsman's.

Later in his career, Tom became an independent salesman representing several men's fashion companies. He traveled throughout the Midwest, quite a determined and hard working salesman. Even in retirement, his strong work ethic continued as he proudly worked for Seasonal Designs, where he was known as "Rep #1."

Tom was a kind, humble, and deeply devoted family man. His faith guided his life, and his family and friends meant the world to him. Making people feel loved was his superpower. He remembered names effortlessly, told wonderful stories, and had a laugh that filled the room. His generous heart left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

He will be deeply missed.

A Memorial Mass celebrating Tom's life will be held at the old St. Patrick Church (Old) on Monday, March 23rd at 10am.

991 S. Waukegan Rd, Lake Forest, Illinois.

Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to:

Mercy Home for Boys & Girls

1140 W. Jackson Blvd. Chicago, IL 60607