Thomas E. Parfitt

June 27, 1930 – April 12, 2024
Thomas "Tom" E. Parfitt, 93, passed away unexpectedly at Sunrise Senior Living of Buffalo Grove, surrounded by his three loving children.
Originally from West Lafayette, Indiana, young Tom moved with his parents and older brother to Wilmette, Illinois. He graduated from DePauw University, later earned his master's degree from the School of Business at Northwestern University in Chicago. He proudly served as an Airman Apprentice in the United States Navy. Tom had many roles in a long career at Harris Bank in Chicago, retiring as Senior Vice President of Human Resources. It was at Harris where he met his future wife, Diana R. Evans.
Tom and Diana raised their family in Deerfield. He was deeply involved in his community. The family belonged to nearby First Presbyterian Church. He served with dedication for many years on the Boards of Highland Park Hospital and Deerfield Public Library. As President of the Deerfield Library Board, he guided the library through changes that have stood the test of time. He found joy in playing tennis, golf, and bridge, and shared his passion for the arts, fine dining, concerts, and travel with his family. He loved driving in the car while listening to his favorite jazz music and funny old-time radio shows.
Known for his charismatic personality, wit, and intelligence, he brought laughter and joy to those around him. His summer retreat at Torch Lake, Michigan, held a special place in his heart, where he delighted in swimming, waterskiing, sailing his Sunfish boat, and cruising his power boat around the lake. Tom's legacy lives on through the memories he created and the relationships he nurtured.
He is survived by daughters Karen Parfitt (Steven Banner), Laura (Joe) Chatman; son Thomas E. Parfitt, Jr.; granddaughters Lauren (Evan) DeVoe, Julie (Will) Stewart, and two great-grandsons Benjamin and Charles DeVoe. He is also survived by brother-in- law Robert L. Slaughter; cousin Lynne P. Larsson; and many much-loved nephews, nieces, and grand-relatives.
Tom was preceded in death by his beloved wife Diana; his parents Elliott H. and Mildred C. Parfitt; brother Charles R. "Bob" Parfitt; in-laws Thomas W. and Ruth L. Evans, and two sister-in laws Phyllis B. Parfitt and Carolyn E. Slaughter.
All funeral services will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Tom's name to the Deerfield Public Library and the Chicago Botanic Garden. For additional information please call Kelley & Spalding Funeral Home at (847) 831-4260.