Thomas Edward Smusyn born November 8th 1932 to Josephine (nee Rack) and Nick on Winnemac Avenue in Chicago, lifelong resident of the Northwest side. Graduate of Taft High School and Wright College. Reunited in death with his parents and brothers Artie, Nick and Bill. Father to Thomas B., Laura and Steven. Grandfather and father figure to Loreli DeFina (Jason) and Jacqueline Nicole DeFina. Great-Grandfather to Eliana, Izabel, Arianna, Noemi and Ethan. Beloved Uncle to many nieces and nephews. Fond pup grandpa to Marley and Chip. Former husband to Kathleen (nee Degen).
A Navy Veteran who served 4 years during the Korean Conflict and dedicated USPS postal carrier for over 25 years. He will always be remembered for his love and dedication to providing for his family, his strong work ethic, and his pride in everything he did. Touted in the field of Gangster Americana as the ”Godfather of all things John Dillinger” he was a respected historian and author who traveled the country researching at several state libraries and interviewing countless people to find the true story of John Dillinger’s life. He co-wrote John Dillinger: The Life and Death of America’s First Celebrity Criminal and contributed to several documentaries and Hollywood movies with respect to Dillinger and other depression-era gangsters. Additionally, he was an avid sports player and fan who spent many years coaching his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren’s various sports teams.
In lieu of flowers, please donate in his name, to The Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation at www.rizzo44.com
For more information, please call (773) 774-4100.
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