Thomas H. Bederka

Thomas H. Bederka, 67, passed away unexpectedly on December 17, 2024. He and his twin brother Robert were born on September 15, 1957, in Dearborn, Michigan, sons to Paul and Alice (Tavzelj) Bederka. At a young age they moved to Rockford, and he graduated from Jefferson High School in 1975. Tom started working for Sandray Precision Grinding Inc., when he was 18, and dedicated 49 years of his life there; in that time, he became a valued and respected member of the team until his retirement (and even after retirement) on September 13, 2024. In high school, he met his sweetheart Jean Witkowski, and they would date for 7 years before marrying on September 24, 1983, at St. Rita Catholic Church. They shared 29 years of marriage before her passing on December 12, 2012. Following the passing of his wife, Jean, he grew considerably closer to his daughter, Nicole, creating lasting memories as they navigated life's challenges together. Tom had various hobbies in his leisure time. He cherished fishing trips with friends and brothers, particularly seeking Musky in the scenic northern waters. His love for hot rods was evident from a young age; he often participated in drag racing with his twin brother when they were younger and enjoyed working on cars throughout his life with brothers and friends. He also took pride in helping the neighborhood kids with things like bike tires or handing out cheese sticks and candy. It was a great fulfillment in supporting the younger generation, leaving a lasting impact on their lives.

He will be missed by those who loved him most, his daughter Nicole; his siblings Paula (Jerome) Mais, Larry (Ida) Bederka, Craig (Janet) Bederka, and Robert (Julie) Bederka; Jean’s siblings Gary Witkowski, Joy (Mike) Heaslip, Jill (Scott) Mishmash, and June (Ray) Kindermann; numerous nieces and nephews and good family friend Robert (Jaci) Murphy. He is also survived by the Gouker Family owned business, Sandray Precision Grinding, and all of the employees he considered family.

Tom is predeceased by his beloved wife, Jean; his parents Paul and Alice; brother, Tim, and his nephew, Matthew.

A time to come and honor Tom will take place on Saturday, January 4, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, Illinois 61108. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family to be established at a later date. To send condolences online or share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com