Thomas Pniewski

Thomas “Tom” Pniewski, 77, passed away surrounded by his loving family May 21, 2024, in Rockford, Illinois. Born on May 1, 1947, in Elmhurst, Illinois, son to Frank and Mary Lou (Pobgee) Pniewski. He was raised in Arlington Heights. After high school, he was drafted to the U.S. Army and served in Vietnam, earning a Purple Heart. While stationed in Vietnam, Tom’s army buddy suggested he write to Judy, a girl from his hometown. Their letters blossomed into love and she later became his bride. Tom spent almost 40 years working for Cardinal Glass Company as a glazier before his retirement in 2007. 

He married the love of his life, Judith “Judy” Leigh in St. Patrick Catholic Church on June 14, 1969, and they shared 44 years of marriage before her passing May 14, 2014. Tom’s family will deeply miss his devotion to loving and caring for his family, and the time he spent with and supporting his grandkids. He loved fishing, Dale Earnhardt and cooking breakfast for his grandchildren. 

He will be missed by those who loved him most, his daughters Tracie (Jim) Wedoff and Leann (Mark) Torrisi; his granddaughters Abby (Andrew Pavlat) Wedoff, Emma Wedoff, Valerie Wedoff, Sarah Torrisi and his grandson, or more affectionately known as his best buddy, Austin Torrisi; his sister-in-law Jan Markell; special niece Paula (James) Fagan and their children Gabe and Addie Fagan; his special aunt, JoAnn Kell. He is predeceased by his beloved wife Judy; his parents, and in-laws Bernie and Tess Leigh. A very heartfelt thank you to Dr. Sunil Patel and all of the care team at the Swedish American Cath Lab for the care and compassion they showed to Tom and his family.

A visitation will take place on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 3910 N. Rockton Road, Rockford, Illinois 61103. Visitation will continue Thursday, May 30, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. until the Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. at St. Rita Catholic Church, 6254 Valley Knoll Drive, Rockford, Illinois 61109. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family for a memorial to be established at a later date. To send online condolences or share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com