Thomas J. Hawkins M.D.

Thomas J. Hawkins, M.D., 81, passed away on December 17th, 2024, at his home in Estero, Florida. Tom was born in Chicago, Illinois, to Robert and Helen (nee Coyle) and raised in Elmhurst, Illinois. After attending Fenwick High School, he followed his heart to the University of Notre Dame where he cultivated an unyielding passion for learning that remained with him for the rest of his life. Upon graduation in 1965, he went on to earn his M.D. from the University of Illinois, where he met his wife, Beth. Their union would span an incredible 55 years.
Following an internship and residency at Cook County Hospital and Loyola Medical Center, Tom served two years as a physician in the U.S. Navy. He began his career as an OB-GYN in Wheaton, Illinois and became rooted in the community, delivering over 3,000 babies over the course of his forty-year career. Tom's love for the game of golf was unparalleled, and he delighted in teaching his family to play. His passion for golf was rivaled only by his deep and abiding Catholic faith, which became a cornerstone of his life. Tom found solace and strength in attending Mass daily and serving as a visitation minister during the final years of his life, treasuring the friendships he formed within his church community.
A proud Notre Dame alumnus, Tom's devotion to his alma mater was legendary. Rarely seen without
the ND logo on his attire, he was a spirited supporter of its sports teams, celebrating the triumphs of both the men's and women's teams with equal fervor. You couldn't be around Tom for long without understanding his deep love for Notre Dame, from the fight song set as his ringtone to the flag waving from his home. Tom's lifelong curiosity and thirst for knowledge propelled him to adopt many hobbies throughout his life. He was a crossword enthusiast, amateur photographer, trivia buff, Jeopardy super-fan, and history book junkie.
Tom is survived by his loving wife, Beth, and his children: Meghan (Sean Foy), Maura Salyer (Glen), Molly Parker (Jason), and Tim (Liz). He also leaves behind seven grandchildren: Kaitlyn and Hunter Salyer, Tommy and Harry Hawkins, Ogden Foy, and Caroline and Maggie Parker. Additionally, he is survived by his loving sister, Patty, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Bob, and sister, Mary.
There will be a visitation at 10:30 on Monday, January 20, 2025, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Light Catholic Church, 19680 Cypress View Dr., Fort Myers, Florida. Burial will take place immediately afterward in the serene Church Memorial Garden for family only.
For those that are unable to attend in person, the Funeral Mass will be lived-streamed beginning at 10:55 AM at https://facebook.com/events/s/mass-of-christian-burial-for-t/942489627598284/.
Donations to the Domestic Violence Outreach are appreciated.
1914 S. Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL. 60608 www.domesticviolenceoutreach.com
To sign his guest register or to leave online condolences please visit www.ShikanyFuneralHome.com
Arrangements are being handled by Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home family Owned and Operated Since 1978.