Thomas Bingham Obituary

Bingham, Thomas L. Age 92, of Downers Grove, IL passed away peacefully, February 2, 2014, after a brief illness. Devoted and adoring husband of 64 years of the late Virginia Elizabeth Petruck Bingham; he was lovingly cared for by his 3 devoted daughters, Karen, Donna and Kathleen since Virginia's passing in 2005; he was especially thankful for his 3 sons-in-law, for "taking his daughters off his hands", Bob, Linn and Sal; his outrageous sense of humor delighted his large extended family and especially his grandchildren, Ryan (Eden), Sandra and Rebecca and step-grandchildren, Frankie Jean and Christopher (Vanessa); especially entertaining was Uncle Tom's belly hard laughter at his own jokes enjoyed by his many nephews and nieces including the Petrucks, Sharon Pekarek (George), John (Karen), George (Diane), Cindy Mroczak, Frances Secrist (Dave) and Bingham's, Marianne Serrambana and George; beloved brother-in-law of Rita Mae Petruck (the late George), the late Michael and Caroline Petruck, and the late Nick and Florence Petruck and Jeanne Bingham; he especially loved his numerous grand-nieces and nephews, ages 50 to 10. Tom was born in Chicago to the late George and Marie (Florian) Bingham and survived his brothers and sisters, George, Marie "Molly", Robert, and Jeanette. A proud WWII Veteran, he carried the war with him throughout his life having lost his hearing following a campaign in the PO Valley, Italy. Among his many talents, he was a creative inventor, artist, humorist, published poet and writer. Writing for the Downers Grove Reporter under the penn name, Edward Penwell, his weekly column "Slugs Corner" delighted many. A special friend of the High Seas Scoundrels, he was often "one of the girls". Forever the champion of the disadvantaged, he taught the virtues of generosity and respectfulness by actions, not words. We will love and miss him forever. A memorial service is to be held at a later date. For info call (630)964-9392.