Thomas Daniel Flanagan

Thomas Daniel Flanagan, was born on September 18, 1937, in Chicago, Illinois, to Michael George Flanagan of Irish descent and Mildred Grace Luoma of Finnish descent. He was raised in Chicago, and spent summers in Northern Wisconsin with his grandmother Alina Luoma. He was a devoted brother to James Michael Flanagan, cherishing the bond they shared throughout their lives.
A Life of Adventure Tom's adventurous spirit was evident from his earliest years. He traveled extensively, embracing life's most daring challenges, from running with the bulls in Pamplona, Spain, and skiing the slopes from Zermatt, Switzerland, to Cervinia, Italy. He golfed around the world, enjoying renowned courses like Augusta National, Pebble Beach, and Hogs Head in Ireland, and spent countless days boating through the Florida Keys and Bahamas on his beloved boat, Pizza da Roc. A licensed pilot, Tom found freedom in the skies, often flying for the sheer joy of it.
Legacy in the Florida Keys In 1972, Tom became a member of the Ocean Reef Club, a community that became his second home. Over the years, he left an indelible mark on the club by co-founding the Academy at Ocean Reef, and serving on the boards of ORCAT and the Ocean Reef Airport Committee. In 1983, he built the iconic Burgee Bar, a tribute to his dear friend Mike. He was also a member at Medinah Country Club, Wynstone C.C, Anglers Club and was the longest-standing living member of the Card Sound Golf Club.
A Family Man Although Tom spent the first 48 years of his life as a bachelor, claiming he never wanted children, his life took quite a turn when he married Constance ("Connie") Kezios on August 21, 1984. Despite Connie's promise that "nothing in his life would change", six children in 7 short years -Michael, James, Thomas, John, Pamela, and Kelley-quickly proved otherwise.
Tom was a proud and dedicated father, mentoring his children in life and business while fostering a home filled with love, laughter, and his signature sense of humor. Known for his calming presence and positivity, Tom was the calm to the chaos of his rambunctious family. His favorite companion, however, was Bella, the family dog.
Later in life, Tom found joy in the simple pleasures: savoring the SE ocean breeze from his home at Ocean Reef, mowing the grass at his Culver home, "his North 40," watching football in Oak Brook, and spending time with his family. Whether observing his children's successes on the golf course, TV shows, or polo fields, or enjoying a meal sweetened with his home-harvested honey, Tom lived vicariously through the accomplishments of those he loved. Of all of his many accomplishments, he was most proud of the family he created.
Education and Early Career Tom graduated from Campion Jesuit High School in 1955, where he was a varsity athlete in basketball, football, swimming, and as his father often joked: "the high school ping pong champion". He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Loyola University in 1960 and his law degree from Chicago-Kent College of Law in 1963. Always valuing the importance of education he would tell his children, "an education is something I can give you, that no one can ever take away." In 2013, he was honored as one of Chicago-Kent's 125 Alumni of Distinction.
Starting his career at Chicago Title & Trust Company, Tom went on to serve as a Cook County Assistant State's Attorney, where his work in the criminal and condemnation divisions honed his expertise in property valuation.
A Visionary Entrepreneur In 1968, Tom founded Flanagan | Bilton, a property tax law firm specializing in lowering commercial real estate taxes. Under his leadership, the firm grew to become the largest of its kind in the country. Tom's entrepreneurial ventures extended beyond law; he launched various companies, owned commercial real estate, served on multiple bank boards, and was an avid investor. His colleagues at Flanagan | Bilton became a second family to him, a testament to his generous spirit and leadership.
A Life Well-Lived Tom's life was defined by adventure, service, family, and legacy. He inspired those around him with his positive outlook, endless jokes, and unique ability to connect with everyone he met. His stories were always remembered by those close to him, and if forgotten, rest assured he would tell them again, and again. From his contributions to his community to the indelible impact he left on his family and profession, Tom lived fully, loved deeply, and will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His stories of adventures, endless jokes and quick witted one-liners will undoubtedly live on through his family and friends, "forever and ever, because forever is not long enough".
Rest in peace, Tom. Your memory, your jokes and your stories will forever be cherished in the hearts of those who loved you.
In lieu of flowers, memorials to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, or The Academy at Ocean Reef, are appreciated. 630-323-0275 or www.sullivanfuneralhomehinsdale.com