Thomas P. Graan

Thomas Paul Graan, age 71, of Lake Zurich, passed away on October 24, 2024. Born on June 22, 1953, in Chicago to Ralph and Mary (Mazzocco) Graan, Tom lived a full life defined by humor, hard work, curiosity, and a passion for learning.

Growing up on the southeast side of Chicago, Tom’s childhood was marked by time spent surrounded by family - the middle of three children. He played tennis and basketball and met some of his lifelong friends and future wife to be.

Tom formally explored his interest in the sciences and understanding how things worked when he attended Michigan State University. He earned his PhD in Plant Biochemistry and found his calling, building a career he genuinely loved. His work ethic was unmatched, and he was deeply proud of his efforts to clean and protect the environment.

On June 21, 1975, Tom married Susan Ploog, and they shared nearly fifty years of love and partnership. They welcomed two boys – Anthony and Kevin – filling the home with laughter and activity. Life took them to many locations as they followed Tom’s career – from Champaign, IL to Texas to Delaware and back home to Illinois to be near family. The couple spent the last several decades building a life in Lake Zurich.

Tom dove into his hobbies with as much passion as he did his career and education. He enjoyed computers and electronics, taking them apart, fixing them, and putting them back together. He was an avid record collector and music buff. He loved to grill, cook and bake, always with a measured, scientific approach. Nature remained important to Tom; he could often be found in his garden. He enjoyed trips to the Botanic Garden and sunny afternoons in the yard watching birds at the feeder. He had an appreciation for good wine and food – cooking and grilling for those he loved. He had a sharp, dry sense of humor that kept everyone on their toes.

Tom is survived by his wife, Susan; sons, Anthony Graan and Kevin (partner Tess Mattingly) Graan; sisters Diane Graan and JoAnne (Steve) Jurkovic and family; and many other beloved family and friends.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 29, from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM with a prayer service at 7:30 PM at Davenport Family Funeral Home and Crematory, 941 S. Old Rand Rd., Lake Zurich. Chapel service will begin at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, October 30, at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Cemetery, 1185 W. Algonquin Rd., Palatine.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Tom’s name to the Chicago Botanic Garden or the American Cancer Society.