Thomas Joseph Raley

Tom was born on February 27, 1954 in Chicago, IL to the late Lillian McFarland.

Tom married the love of his life, Linda Liptak, on June 16, 1973. She preceded him in death in 2012.

Tom grew up on the South Side of Chicago. He attended Gage Park High School before leaving to join the United States Marine Corp in 1973. Of all his accomplishments in life, Tom was most proud of being a Marine. After being honorably discharged from the Marine Corp, Tom began his lifelong career as a painter and carpenter.

Tom was a man of many talents and passions. He was an avid golfer and an excellent pool player. He also excelled at bowling, darts, and just about any game of skill. People most remember Tom for his sense of humor, any space he entered was soon filled with laughter. He was a man with a generous heart and never hesitated to help a friend or stranger in need. Despite growing up in the inner city, Tom’s heart belonged to the great outdoors. He loved to fish, or simply sit around a campfire and enjoy nature. Aside from being a Marine, Tom was most proud of his children and grandchildren.

Tom is survived by his son,Thomas Robert (Rachel) Raley; two daughters, Tina Wishik, and Laurie (Wes) Thomas; Two brothers, Tim Conway, and Jerry (Beverly) Conway; one sister, Barbara Valentine; and grandchildren Alissa, Christian, Savannah, Alanna, Amelia, Shane, and Clay.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Lillian McFarland, and step-father, Gerald Conway.

A Catholic Mass and a memorial service will be held in honor of Tom in Chicago at a date still to be determined.