Thomas C. Slagis

Thomas Charles Slagis, of Crystal Lake, Illinois, passed away unexpectedly on May 1, 2023 at the age of 59. Tom’s family and friends are devastated by this sudden loss. Tom was born on February 18, 1964 in Elmira, New York to Edward and Eileen Slagis and moved to the Chicagoland area in 1983.

Tom dedicated his professional life to the family business, Delta-Therm, assuming the role of President in 2001. He stepped down as President when the business was sold in 2021.  Tom remained a critical part of daily business operations using his extensive expertise as a consultant to the new owners. Tom was incredibly dedicated to the success of his business ventures and Delta-Therm’s employees were like a second family to him.

Tom loved cars.  He really, really loved cars.  This lifelong hobby included a great passion for purchasing cars, driving cars, helping other people pick out new cars, following Formula One races around the world and watching them at every opportunity.  He typically owned two cars at any time and was forever on the hunt for his next ride.

Tom and Erica shared a deep love of dogs.  They hiked and vacationed with the dogs in tow, often planning their adventures around the dogs' needs.  Tom was well known for taking his beloved dog, Cali, to work with him throughout her 14 years.

Tom was preceded in death by his loving father and best friend, Edward Charles Slagis.  He is survived by his mother, Eileen Slagis; his partner, Erica Thomas; siblings Nick (Katherine Keefe) Slagis, Anne (Lester) Rich and Ada (John) Slagis; and 5 beloved nieces and nephews, Claire Axinn, Ben Slagis, Nora Rich, Will Rich and Djali Cryer.

A memorial visitation will be held on Thursday evening, May 18th, from 5:00pm to 8:00pm at Davenport Family Funeral Home. A celebration of life mass will be held for Tom on Friday, May 19th, at 1:00pm at Holy Family Catholic Church in Inverness, IL with a reception to follow.  Mass will be available via zoom for those not able to attend.

In lieu of flowers, if you wish, please consider donating to As Good As Gold, Golden Retriever Rescue of Illinois in memory of Tom Slagis. Tom deeply supported Good as Gold, after the adoption of his beloved dog, Beau.