Thomas Charles Bohdan, 76, of River Forest, died peacefully at home on April 29, 2025, with his wife, Susan, by his side. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and lifelong educator, he touched countless lives through his love of learning, history, and teaching.
Born in Chicago, on Jan. 30, 1949, the son of Walter and Agnes Bohdan, he pursued his lifelong passion for education, earning degrees from Kendall College, Northwestern University, and a master’s in library science from Rosary College (now Dominican University). He later completed doctoral studies in education at Northern Illinois University. Over a dedicated career, he served in various teaching and leadership roles across schools in Evanston, Oak Park, River Forest, and Naperville. He inspired students through innovative programs like the Veterans History Project, debate competitions, and interactive lessons on the Civil War.
His Catholic faith, which guided him throughout his life, shaped his values, his dedication to service, and his commitment to education. He was a longtime parishioner of St. Luke Church.
He had a deep appreciation for American history, especially the Civil War era, and was also an avid student of religious studies, finding meaning in exploring different faith traditions. A lover of antiques, he enjoyed collecting and learning about historical artifacts, often sharing his finds and stories with friends and family.
A proud father and grandfather, Tom leaves behind his wife of 52 years, Susan (Troyer) Bohdan; his children Christopher (Megan) and Theresa (Timothy Wheeler); and his grandchildren Tilton, Theodore, and Wynn. He is also survived by his siblings Michael, Peter and Mary Anne, and extended family, all of whom remember his warmth, intellect, and dedication to family and education.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter John Bohdan and Agnes Catherine (Piefke) Bohdan; Susan’s parents, Lloyd Delmer Troyer and Irma Irene (Smith) Troyer; his brother-in-law, Jeffrey Arthur Troyer; his godparents, Uncle Joseph Andrew Piefke, Olga Marianna Klimek and Aunt Sophie Piefke.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 7, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Zimmerman-Harnett Funeral Home, Forest Park, followed by a funeral Mass on Thursday, May 8 at 10 a.m. at St. Luke Church in River Forest, and interment at Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Hillside.