Thomas Richard Harold

Born on May 12, 1946, in Chicago, IL to Richard and Anne Harold (Polites), Tom’s life was defined by his passion for sports and service. After graduating from Amundsen High School in 1964, he proudly served as a Marine in the Reserves before earning a bachelor’s degree from Northeastern University and later achieving his master’s degree in physical education.

In 1977, Tom married his beloved Elaine Harold (Matuga), and together they built a beautiful family with two children, Dr. Ryan Harold and Jaclyn Fleischmann (Harold).

From an early age, sports were at the heart of Tom’s world. A natural athlete and fierce competitor, he excelled in softball, football, golf, baseball, and more. This passion blossomed into a lifelong career as a teacher and coach. Beginning at the elementary level and eventually moving to high school, Tom inspired countless students and athletes. He played a pivotal role in coaching the Tilden football team to the state playoffs twice, before then becoming a coach and teacher at Mather High School. He concluded the final years of his teaching and coaching career at Wheeling High School and, in 2016, was honored with an induction into the Illinois High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame. Tom was not only a coach but also a mentor who nurtured talent both on and off the field, often treating players as part of his extended family.

In retirement, Tom embraced the joys of life by traveling with Elaine, enjoying rounds of golf, and spending quality time with his cherished border collie, Riley Jean. He had a passion for great food and, naturally, a good cocktail.

Tom had a larger-than-life personality and was a captivating storyteller—always entertaining, even when his tales were “slightly” embellished. Tough as they come and generous to a fault, he was the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back if you asked for it.

Tom was predeceased by his parents, Richard and Anne Harold, and his sisters, Mary Harold and Georgeanne Harold. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Elaine Harold; his children, Ryan Harold (and his wife, Kathy) and Jaclyn Fleischmann (and her husband, Kevin); his grandchildren, Ava and Owen Harold; his siblings, Dolores (Frank Still) Harold, Christina Scott, and Richard (Susan) Harold; and his nieces and nephews, Anastasia Harold, Greg (Mary Colleran) Spyreas, Christina Harold, Richard (Nicole) Scott, Stephanie (Jared) Fry, and Scott (Sasha Clynes) Harold.

The Wake will be held at Glueckert Funeral Home, 1520 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60004, on Thursday February 6th from 3:00-8:00pm. The funeral service will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Lymphoma Research Foundation, a local food bank, or a local animal shelter.