Richard Thoms

Richard Wallace Thoms was born in Elgin, Illinois and raised in West Dundee by his parents Marie (Henning) and Alroy Thoms. He was one of four boys. He married Jeannine (Aumond) on September 26, 1964. Their marriage was a symbol of what can occur when a couple truly respects and loves each other. Stats show that only 2% of marriages reach 60 years. How very fortunate that they celebrated this milestone last fall.

Richard served in the Army during the Korean War, helping to build an airfield in France. After his return, he completed his bachelor’s degree at Ohio University. As a young man, Richard played semi-pro football and skied many of the major ski resorts. He played tennis until he was 88, only stopping when the club closed due to the pandemic. He also got his wife down the slopes and onto the tennis courts very early in their marriage.

Richard had two daughters, Catherine and Alison. He was a “Girl Dad” long before it was a common phrase. He instilled in his daughters the desire to be strong and independent thinkers. He wasn’t afraid of feminism. His wry sense of humor went a long way with his girls. When Alison married Steven Crooke from South Africa, Richard all but adopted him as his son. He cherished his two grandsons, Jaden and Ethan, who brought Gpa many smiles and memories.

Richard was a commercial insurance broker and vice president for 50 years. He never lived to work but worked to live. Richard and Jeannine travelled extensively around the world, interested in various cultures.

Richard is survived by his wife, Jeannine, children Catherine, Alison and Steven, grandsons Jaden and Ethan, brothers John and Pete, sisters-in-law Jean Thoms and Jackie English, and many nieces and nephews.

Richard was a very selfless and unpretentious man who always put family first. Typical of his unassuming nature, he has requested that no services be held. Instead, the Thoms family asks that you simply hug your loved ones and smile.