Thomas "Tom" Banner, age 58, tragically passed away on August 23, 2026. Born on July 6, 1968, in Geneva, Illinois, to Linda and Mike Banner, Tom grew up with a deep love for his home state and an unwavering devotion to the Chicago Bears—and really, all Chicago teams. Some say he chose to leave us now just to avoid witnessing another losing Bears season, a joke he would absolutely appreciate.

Tom lived life on his own terms, with the throttle wide open. A proud Navy veteran, he embodied the true entrepreneurial spirit, always chasing the next big idea and never afraid to take a chance. Over the years, he invested in everything from racing greyhounds to real estate.

Bold, brash, sarcastic, hilarious, and competitive to the core. If there was a game — chess, dice, rock-paper-scissors — Tom was in, and he was playing to win. Tom was a one-of-a-kind guy who lit up every room he walked into. He knew no strangers and had a remarkable ability to make friends wherever he went. Beneath that big personality was an incredibly generous heart. Tom was the kind of person who would give you his favorite shirt off his back if you needed it- even if he'd complain about it later.

Everyone has a Tom story. There is a memory, a laugh, an adventure, or a moment that those who knew him will carry with them for the rest of their lives. In that way, a little piece of Tom will continue on in everyone he touched.

Tom's closest friends were his two "brothers from another mother," Chad Englund and Tony Pelligrini — friendships that were built on loyalty, laughter, and more adventures than can be counted. A bond that was truly unparalleled.

While Tom was a friend to many, his wife Kelly and his two boys Jacob (13) and Ben (10) held his whole heart. They were his greatest pride and joy. They will forever cherish memories of days on the lake, playing ball, riding ATVs and motorcycles, and their trips to Clearwater, Florida. These are the memories that death cannot take away. He was their world, and their life without him will never be the same. He was deeply loved, completely unforgettable—and he will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Preceded in death by his mother Linda Sladek, stepfather Jack Sladek and his father-in-law Kim Vogel. Funeral services were held privately in Clearwater, FL. A Celebration of Life will be held in Kenosha, WI at a later date.

For those who wish to honor Tom's memory, the family requests that memorial donations in Tom's honor be made to Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation.

Tom lived fast, loved hard, and never did anything halfway. He left his mark on a lot of lives—and he will never be forgotten.