Thomas Zahorik Obituary

Zahorik, Thomas Michael

Thomas Michael Zahorik, age 39, died suddenly on January 20, 2024 in Cali Colombia. Tom was born on March 15, 1984 in Evanston, the son of Janet McCauley and Michael Zahorik. He had just married the beautiful Luciana Gomez Pulgarin, in Cali, Colombia, on January 13. Cali was a special place for Tom. He lived there from 2009-2015, teaching at the IB school and had many friends there. Tom was a self taught pianist who was inspired by the salsa scene in Cali. In 2013, co-founded the club Punto Barré, the premier live music club in Cali, a city renowned for salsa and dancing.Tom was living in Evanston, IL and worked as an IT specialist.

Tom is survived by his parents Mike Zahorik and Janet McCaueley, brother Jesse (Jennifer), sister Meggie (Taylor) Lantz, niece Willow, sister Marie Therese, youngest brother Michael, step mother Barb Zahorik, step father Fred Kraenzle, grandparents Ed and Joan Zahorik, uncle Mark (Elena) Zahorik, aunts Lisa Bower and Molly Zahorik, uncle Bob McCauley, aunt Molly McCauley, and many great aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by maternal grandparents Porter Thomas and Elizabeth McCauley (née Dunne), late uncle Tom McCauley and aunt Elizabeth McCauley.

It is heartbreaking for all of us that his life ended so suddenly at his happiest moment. We cherish all of Tom and will miss and remember him always

There will be a visitation at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55th St., Countryside on Sunday, January 28 from 1 to 5 pm, including words of remembrance at 4:00 pm. Please see the full obituary at hjfunerals.com. Funeral Information: 708-352-6500

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