Thomas L. Housh

Thomas L. Housh, 75, of Sugar Grove, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Wednesday, February 14, 2024. He was born on March 20, 1948, at St. Catherine's Hospital in Kenosha, Wisconsin, to the late Leonard and Irene (Simo) Housh.
Tom's family relocated to Aurora in 1956. He attended elementary school at St. Rita of Cascia and graduated high school from Marmion Military Academy in 1967. After high school, Tom continued his education at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
Tom had a passion for animals from his time as a youth, an enthusiasm cultivated during his active membership in the 4-H. This passion evolved into a fulfilling career in the show horse business. He embarked on his equine journey with Huntoon Stables in Sugar Grove, dedicating himself to training students for competition riding. He then joined the Osbornes at Green Gate Acres Farm in Batavia before establishing his own business, Tom Housh Stables, in North Aurora. Tom's expertise extended to training horses and riders for competition, first at Brockman Stables in Neenah, Wisconsin, and later in Nicholasville, Kentucky, with the Becker family.
Returning to the Aurora area, Tom continued his career in sales and marketing for Janco Supply, eventually joining Collision Centers of America (CCA). At CCA, Tom played a significant role in the company's growth and development through his vast relationships in the Chicago market, not only as a lead marketer but also as an owner. He continued his career with Caliber Collision/ABRA after their acquisition of CCA.
Tom was a devoted father and proud grandfather, possessing a deep love for the Lord. His faith was evident, and he shared it generously throughout his lifetime. Tom also loved the game of golf, sharing that passion with friends and family.
He is survived by his daughter Jessica (Jason) Pall of Aurora, granddaughters Alexandra (Caleb) Vavasseur of Morganza, Louisiana, Emily Poss of Plano, and Brooklyn Pall of Aurora. Siblings Kathlene (Curtis) Sampson of Aurora, Lawrence (Debbie) Housh of Batavia, Robert Housh of Naperville, Richard Housh of Aurora, James (Patricia) Housh of Aurora, niece Christine Carlson, nephews Cary (Karen) Sampson and Daniel Housh. Tom also leaves behind several cousins, great-nieces & a great-nephew.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents, wife Loretta Faye Housh, great-niece Sydnie Sampson, and former wife Zona (Tuftee) Housh of Naperville.
The family extends a special thank you to nurse Sarah and the Suncrest Hospice team. In addition, heartfelt gratitude is expressed to the Cedarhurst of Yorkville community for their partnership and friendship, providing unwavering support over the last 20 months. Special thanks go to Tom's close friend Ed Zak of Elburn for his dedicated support and friendship during some very difficult times.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Suncrest Hospice or Grace Church of DuPage in Tom's memory.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 21, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Healy Chapel Sugar Grove, 370 Division Dr., Sugar Grove, IL 60554. The funeral ceremony will take place on Thursday, February 22, 2024 at 11 AM, also at The Healy Chapel Sugar Grove. An hour visitation will take place immediately prior to the funeral ceremony. Interment will be at Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery, 278 E. Ashland Ave., Aurora, IL 60505. A luncheon will follow. The funeral ceremony will be live streamed at the following link: https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/3703587766