Thomas Szilasi

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Thomas Lee Szilasi, who died on February 24, 2025, in Weldon Spring, Missouri, at the age of 81. Tom fought a courageous battle with kidney failure and recently suffered a heart attack, but his zest for life never waned.

Tom was born on August 24, 1943, in Elgin, Illinois. His career journey was as diverse and dynamic as he was. After college, Tom began his professional life at Ortho Pharmaceutical, where he excelled in sales, ultimately becoming a regional sales director in San Jose, California. Driven by a passion for new ventures, Tom relocated to Mendocino, California, where he owned and managed a charming Bed and Breakfast. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to Augusta, Missouri, in the late 1980s, where he owned a vineyard and supplied grapes to Montelle Winery. Tom’s passion for community involvement and service carried him into local government, first as Building Commissioner for St. Charles County, and later as Director of the Duckett Creek Sanitation Department. Under his leadership, the department earned numerous state awards. Tom also served on the Zoning Board of Weldon Spring until his passing and contributed nearly 25 years of service to the Chapter One Condo Association in Weldon Spring, holding various leadership positions.

Tom’s love for adventure and travel was evident in every aspect of his life. A proud owner of a 1996 Corvette, he delighted in participating in and winning local Corvette shows. He also owned a yacht in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where he embraced the title of “Captain Tommy.” His love for the sea was matched only by his passion for scuba diving, and he spent countless weeks sailing in tropical waters, exploring the depths, and living life on his own terms.

Above all, Tom was a man who lived fully and loved deeply. He is survived by his brother, Richard Szilasi, and sister-in-law Kathy of Loveland, Ohio, as well as his granddaughter, Melissa Henry of Colorado Springs, Colorado. He was predeceased in death by his daughter, Deborah Szilasi Henry. Uncle Tom will be dearly missed by his three nieces, Maggie, Susan, and Kelly, as well as his nephew Tim, and their extended families, who were all fortunate to know him.

A private family Celebration of Life will be held in Loveland, Ohio, and Tom will be laid to rest in the Bluff City Cemetery in Elgin, Illinois, alongside his family.

Tom leaves behind a legacy of adventure, accomplishment, and above all, a reminder to live life with enthusiasm and joy. He will be missed more than words can express.