ForeverMissed
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This memorial website was created in memory of our loved one, Tommy Duhig 50 years old, born on May 5, 1968 and passed away suddenly on October 2, 2018.  He is survived by his 3 children Meghan (25), Thomas (18), and Maggie (16).  

Our brother Tommy had a big, bright, friendly smile and an even bigger heart.  It was evident in all aspects of his life.  He loved and cherished his children more than anything in the world and  when he spoke of them his eyes would light up.

His parenting style was the perfect combination of love, humor, devotion, and guidance.  He was not only their father, but also their best friend. 

Tom was a very animated and playful father, never losing the sense of his own inner child.  All the little ones loved his boisterous presence and would gravitate to his open arms. 

His maternal instinct was equally as strong as his paternal side.  He was affectionate, understanding, and unlike most fathers, he mastered the art of doing laundry while simultaneously making funny notes in their school lunches.  The notes are where his sense of humor kicked in.  

He had an amazing ability to read people and remember the details even if he had only met you once and it was years ago.  He knew the questions to ask to bridge the gaps in the time that had passed. Tom always made everyone feel welcome even if it was a first time meeting.  

He was known for hosting the best parties and went above and beyond to accommodate all guests.  Upon walking into his home, the comfort he provided left you feeling like royalty.  Thus    nickname, "Mr. Belvedere", came from the most genuine place because Tommy always made you feel as if you were exactly where you were supposed to be when you were with him. 

He served, cooked, and cleaned effortlessly while entertaining guests and was always aware of the people around him and he made sure that everyone in the room was having a good time.  In most cases, Tommy was the center of attention, but that didn’t stop him from getting to know what was going on in your day to day.  When he spoke, he spoke with great intent and when he listened it was with his whole heart and mind.  Tommy was the kind of guy that you knew would answer the phone when you called. 

This "Mr. Belvedere" character was not only at family gatherings, but anywhere Tom was invited; Belvedere was there, always helping.  

He rang doorbells with his elbows and rolled up his sleeves when dinner was done making sure the host was fat, happy and smiling.   

Tom was always good about taking care of visitors from out of town, even if he didn't know them.  The visitors reports back were always glowing good times resulting in fast friends.   

Tom never forgot or missed an opportunity to wish you well.  He always reached out to you, on your birthday, anniversary or “just to say hi”.  

Every vacation anyone ever took, could be guaranteed a pre and post call from Tom.  He would genuinely wish for you to have fun and honestly wanted a detailed report upon your return.  

Tom loved hearing about travels and sharing in your joy even when he had no vacation time and was working doubles.  He was your biggest cheerleader.  He vicariously traveled along with you on your journey, whether it was to a destination, recalling a funny incident, or on an inner journey trying to uncover the meaning of life.  

When you needed advice regarding life's more difficult issues, he was well read and would reference what he learned in books from great spiritual leaders.  This side of him may have been more obscured, but he had an incredible depth and was fascinated with the big picture in life.  Eckhart Tolle's "The Power of Now" was one of his favorites. 

Tom is the guy who would take his shirt off his back for you.

He was well spoken and interesting.  He was witty and charismatic, capturing everyone's attention.  His story telling capabilities rivaled some of the best.  He spent a great portion of his life working with people and building authentic relationships, first in sales providing consulting services to Corporate American employees through computer, software and hardware training, then later joining ILUE 399.  Tom left a lasting impression on everyone he worked with.  

We would love to hear your stories and see any pictures or videos you may have of Tom. You can post them in the STORIES TAB or just upload photos in the GALLERY TAB. This website will forever be a reminder for his family and future generations to reflect upon the many facets of one great guy.

You are in our hearts forever Tom.

October 2, 2023
October 2, 2023
Thinking of you Tommy...may we meet again
May 5, 2022
May 5, 2022
You are in my thoughts today Tommy. Missing you more than ever
May 5, 2020
May 5, 2020
Happy Birthday Tommy! You are very missed, but your spirit lives on. I hope you're keeping up with the shenanigans and keeping all the angel's laughing as you did here on Earth. Always forever loved and remembered. 
October 27, 2018
October 27, 2018
I hadn’t seen Tommy in years and was shocked and saddened by his passing. He was one of those unique people who would leave you more energized and feeling better. His smile could turn a cloudy day bright. He touched a lot of lives and also taught us how to live and love every day, let’s not forget that. Rest In Peace Tommy.
October 14, 2018
October 14, 2018
I’ve known Tommy for well over twenty years and to say I was a fan of his would be an understatement. I was completely heartbroken to hear of his passing. He was and will always remain my favorite person of all time to randomly run into over the years. Even Margaret could attest at how excited I got when I had the pleasure of spending quality time with Tommy. You were guaranteed an evening full of entertainment, fun & a lot of laughter with that crazy guy. The night before Thanksgiving won’t be the same because I won’t be able to hangout with you. Tommy not only entertained he brought out the best in me and everyone he came into contact with. I’ll miss him telling me about the next good book to read.
I’ll never forget the very last time I saw Tommy. It was a few months ago and I ran into Mariano’s for dinner after work one night. I was tired, cranky and wanted to run in and run out. As luck would have it my buddy Tommy was there getting dinner as well and wouldn’t you know it instantly my mood took a turn for the better. We decided to eat there and enjoy a few adult beverages. He lit up when I asked him how his kids were doing. He was one proud father. I’ll be forever grateful for that last run in with my dear friend. I’ll miss you.
Unfortunately, I was out of town for his services and was unable to pay my respects. However, I almost find it fitting for our friendship because I know we will run into one another again.
My deepest condolences to his family, especially his cousin Mike and his three beautiful children.
Until we meet again.
Love ya, Tommy
Jen Adams
October 10, 2018
October 10, 2018
I met Tommy through my friend Katie Walsh, he was her cousin and to me they were two bookends. Two bookends full of mischief. We all went to MVCC and one story that stands out is we were hanging in the quad between classes and the subject of fake id’s came up. Tom said for $50 I have a guy. I said really who ‘s the guy and he smiled and said I got a guy. It took me a minute but the smile and twinkle in his eye had us roaring. Get it... of course HE was the guy! My heart is so heavy that you are no longer with us I hope it’s true that one day we will see those that touched our lives on the other side.
Sure Glad I got to meet you, god bless.
October 10, 2018
October 10, 2018
HDI Global Insurance is only one of the many company that had the delightful opportunity to work with and see Tom on a daily bases. He was always coming up to help us with our crazy problems and would do it with a smile on his face. We are broken hearted and so sorry for the loss of such a wonderful man. Tom will be missed by everyone here at HDI that had the pleasure of working with him. His family is in our thoughts and prays.
Love,
Tom's HDI Family
October 10, 2018
October 10, 2018
I only knew Tommy from my office building, where he was on the maintenance team. He was always kind, friendly, with a perpetual smile on his face. His absence is deeply felt at 161 North Clark. May his family and loved ones find comfort in Love's embrace, and know that Tommy's spirit is forever with us.
October 10, 2018
October 10, 2018
I couldn't agree more with the opening statements on this memorial page regarding Tommy. Tommy was great to the tenants and always an absolute joy to be around. Truly. He and I talked about our children frequently. His daughters were his rock stars. He loved family and life. There is not enough space on this memorial page to reflect upon the goodness of Tommy. I was shocked when I saw the first message and said to myself, it can't be. Not Tommy. I know in my heart of hearts, the most fondest memories of Tommy will always bring a smile to many many faces, especially his dear family, and will be forever lasting. May Tommy find peace in the heavens and may his family be showered daily by his never ending love.
October 10, 2018
October 10, 2018
I never knew him personally, but know he was loved and adored by his cousins. Prayers to the family and rejoice knowing heaven has a new angel.
October 7, 2018
October 7, 2018
This picture of Tommy with his arms open wide is the way I will remember him. He had his heart that wide all the time. The world is less bright without him in it. Heaven has another angel...keep them laughing dude!

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October 2, 2023
October 2, 2023
Thinking of you Tommy...may we meet again
His Life

Overview and Request

October 5, 2018

Tommy's life was too short, but it was full.  For someone his age, there are many chapters of his life to record.

Over time, we will fill this page with memorable dates, events from childhood, teen years, college, and adult life.  The stories and pictures that are uploaded will provide a source of comfort over the years as we recall the life of our son, brother, cousin, friend and Dad. 

Help us build the story.  Please share some memories on the STORIES tab or even just upload a photo on the GALLERY TAB. It would be great if you can reference how you knew Tommy/first met, if you went to school or worked with him. You can also illustrate your story with a picture, music, or video.  There is no storage limit, so please keep it flowing!

Sharing your memory and pictures is such a precious gift and our family is forever grateful!


Recent stories

A true friend is hard to find

October 3, 2019
I'm writing this on flight to New Orleans.  Flying above the clouds I find myself thinking about Tom again, what I felt last year at this time, and how much I miss him.  I'm listening to a Son House song: "Bear this in mind.  A true friend is hard to find."  Tom was a true friend and a rare one.

When I moved to Chicago from DC, the movers were days late delivering my things and I had no choice but to leave for North Carolina on a business trip.  I had paid the movers half up front and owed the balance upon delivery.  Of course, they arrived when I was still in the airport in Raleigh.  Desperate, I called Tom.  Tom ran to the bank, withdrew $1,000, drove to the north side, and paid the movers.  When I arrived home, Tom was still there unpacking my boxes and hanging my clothes in the closet.  I was stunned.  I can say in all honesty that I dont know anyone else who would have done that for me.  (Granted, the first box he opened was the one marked "books" that really contained wine and there was a half-read "book" on the counter, but that was the very least he deserved.)

I believe that if we're open and receptive we can be touched by extraordinary people who will not only change our lives, but also who we are.  I'm a different, better person as the result of Tommy's friendship.  I miss my friend.



Letter to my brother...I still miss you

October 1, 2019
Tommy,

Where do I begin? It has taken me almost a full year to be able to watch all of the videos posted because it hurt to much. I just finished watching all of them at once and am overwhelmed once again by the void that was left when you died. Everytime I think of you, which is everyday, I am flooded with memories of you, your life, and reliving all of the time I had with you.

Life as I know it forever changed the day I received the call from Boston. I never thought I’d ever stop crying and for me the very worst/best part of each day was as soon as I started to wake up. There is that initial twilight period where everything was the same as always and life was normal and a second later the realization that you had died would assault my thoughts. There were so many times where it took everything for me to just lift my head off the pillow but somehow, I did because I knew you would do the same for me. You would step up and try to take care of things. As much as I try to see the silver lining in every situation I have to admit, this time it was a struggle. I didn’t think I would ever see it. But as we know, time has a way of slowly starting to heal us. There isn’t a single day that goes by that I don’t think of you. Your picture sits on my desk and I say good morning to you every day. I talk to you throughout the work day because I miss you: your voice, smile, laugh and heart. (What I wouldn’t give to hear you say “So long sucker” just one more time) We always checked in on each other and I’m so happy that Mom and Dad taught us to always look out for each other no matter what. We were different people but no matter what, at the end of the day I always knew I could call you about anything and you me. You were my “in case of emergency” and I was yours.

I am learning we all grieve differently but at the end of the day we are supporting each other just as you would have done. We are blessed that this horrific tragedy didn’t pull us apart and instead brought us even closer together. This tragedy changed all of us forever and I can say without a doubt that we all view life as a precious gift and cherish every moment of it. I have witnessed tremendous love and compassion from all of our friends and families and when we were all barely holding it together our family and friends rallied around us to hold us up, offer a shoulder, meal, conversation, prayers, love and to help steady us. I knew you had a big heart but I didn’t truly realize the sheer magnitude until your wake. The lives you touched is truly remarkable and it goes to show you that one man can change the world with his kindness and love.

I feel truly blessed to have been able to share 50 years with you and I know you are always around. (Thanks for all of the signs by the way) I love knowing you’re never far away and you will never be forgotten. Your children are amazing but I know you already know that because you told me all the time. :P You did an incredible job raising them and I promise with all that I have that I will always be there for them because I love them as if they were my children. I vow to keep my promise to you until the day I die.

Please don’t go to far because we all still need you…

You will always be my protector and I only hope that I can love as deeply, protect as fiercely and laugh as ferociously as you did.

Until that time MR FABULOUS…I love and miss you.



Your Big Sister.

Dad

October 11, 2018

My dad... i’ve got so much to say about him. Let me start this with he was my world, a bold statement but accurate. He was my human alarm clock and woke me up every single day for school, he was the first voice I heard in the morning and always said, “Wake up Sweetie! Have a great day. I love you bunches!” Waking up to a call like that started my day on a positive note. My dad was my best friend and dad all in one too. That man knew everything about me, and we talked about everything. I even went to him when I had boy troubles, or just wanted a laugh, and he never failed to make me cry laughing. He was a rare man and I am beyond blessed to have spent 16 years of my life with him, they were the best. What I always admired about my father was how he had a heart of gold, and that he was such a rare person (I mean i’ve never met anyone quite like him). 

          He could make anyone laugh and smile (even strangers) with just a few simple words. My dad would best be described as the sunshine on a cloudy day, since he was always having a positive attitude no matter what was happening, he truly had the best outlook on life. He never believed in a bad day either, he just thought some days were better than others. My dad and I shared the best memories, laughs, and stories that I will cherish for the rest of my life. He made the biggest impact in my life, and I hope one day I can do the same for someone. My heart hurts without seeing or hearing from him in just shy over a week, but as he taught me there is a positive to every negative. I now have the hands down greatest guardian angel to guide me through life, so I know he will keep me in line too. I never knew what a bad day was until I lost my dad, but I am thankful that he taught me everything to get through life. He always stressed that I have to be strong, so this is the time I need to take his life lessons 101 and put it to use.

    He also stressed that I always need to go outside of my comfort zone in order to grow. My dad went skydiving, scuba diving, tried every food, traveled everywhere and anywhere, and everything in between. He truly had no limits or fears which rubbed off on me. Right now, without my dad I am out of my comfort zone but I am trying my very best to see the positives in life. I am still in shock from this past week but I find comfort in knowing my dad always has my back. He always told me he’d always be there for me and bat when I am unable to do so, and he is staying true to his word. I honestly am the luckiest child in the world to have been given my dad. He was THE funniest, most compassionate, loving man in the world with a heart that was so rare. I remember from the moment that a blender fell on my head in preschool and broke, when he came sprinting into the kitchen after he would always have my back. To be honest, I’m unsure if I was crying because I was in pain or I broke my dads favorite blender. Right after I was sitting on his lap crying and then I started patting his back. We both immediately started laughing since I was patting his back while I was the one crying. A silly memory, but defiantly one for the books. 

  To sum up, my dad was the greatest role model and best friend I could ever imagine. To be honest, he exceeded the limits for being the single-handily best person around, but I hope one day I can come close to being as great as he was. To my best friend, I know you’re making everyone inheaven as happy as you made everyone here. I will miss you forever but can’t wait to get a hug from you the moment we meet again. 

    I love you bunches, 

Mags

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