Thomas Ainslie
September 6, 1951 — December 21, 2024
Thomas S. Ainslie “Tom”, son of the late Frederick and Betty Ainslie, was the beloved husband and best friend of the late Florence “Flo,” with whom he shared 14 wonderful years. He was a devoted father to Josh (Stephanie) Ainslie, and grandfather to Laceigh and Brody. A much-loved brother to Mike (Kate) Ainslie and the late Diane (Bob) Diederich, Tom was also a cherished uncle to Joey, Pete, Nick, Jill, Tracy, and Amy, as well as a great-uncle, caring step-father, step-grandfather and great friend to many. He will be especially missed by his faithful German Shepherd, Fletch, who never left his side.
Tom’s passions reflected his vibrant and eclectic spirit. A graduate of Northern Illinois University and a proud member of Alpha Phi Omega, he embraced his “hippie side,” celebrating life with creativity and music. His love for vinyl records extended beyond listening—he delighted in tinkering with and repairing record players and other electronics.
As a self-published author of fantasy novels, Tom found immense joy in weaving stories and bringing his imagination to life. His fascination with history, especially the Civil War and his family genealogy, inspired him to delve deeply into the past, always eager to learn and share his insights.
Tom’s legacy of love, creativity, and curiosity will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and cherished him.
Memorial donations in his memory may be made to German Shepard Dog Rescue Inc.,
https://gsrescue1.org/index.php/support-us/
or Ronald McDonald House Charities,
https://www.rmhc.org/donate
. Chapel service, Sunday, January 5, 2025; 11 AM – 3 PM at Countryside Funeral Home 333 S. Roselle Road, Roselle. For information and to leave condolences:
www.countrysidefuneralhomes.com
or (630) 529-5751.