Thomas Zateslo

Thomas Zateslo, 78, of Chicago, Illinois, passed away at home peacefully on Monday, June 8, 2026. Tom fought a long battle with cancer with unwavering courage for almost three years. Despite spending much of that time in treatment, he never lost his infectious smile. Throughout his entire journey, he spread joy and showed remarkable strength to those around him. His bravery was inspirational.

Tom was born on March 17, 1948, in Akron, Ohio, the son of Mildred Zateslo née Reynolds and Nicholas Zateslo. Many of his birthday celebrations were marked by green shamrocks and Irish music. His friends and family gathered in Chicago often to mark the occasion, recently in 2023 for a larger festive dinner to celebrate his 75th.

Tom graduated from Harvey S. Firestone Senior High School in Akron, Ohio in 1966, then went on to The University of Akron, earning a Bachelor of Science in Education degree.

Tom especially loved music, having played lead guitar in a band called The Muns with his close friends from high school, while also teaching guitar lessons. Following college graduation, Tom, a painter himself, went on to teach art education – a true renaissance man. Tom then decided to focus on music, performing nationally and internationally with the Rick Samples Band. Following his career as a performer, Tom transitioned into a corporate music executive with CBS Musical Instruments and Gulbransen. He also worked with Steinway & Sons as Director of Marketing.

Tom overcame many obstacles in his life. In 1982 Tom was involved in a near fatal car accident in Chicago that left him in a coma for three months. He spent the first year of recovery at the Rehabilitation Institute (now Shirley Ryan Ability Lab) under the thoughtful care of the renowned Dr. Henry Betts. He returned to his childhood home in Akron to continue the rehabilitation process at Edwin Shaw with the unwavering support of his family. Tom always maintained a positive attitude throughout. While the accident was devastating, his personal grit and determination, along with the help of the skilled medical staff made it possible for him to regain mobility and live a full and satisfying life.

Tom aways enjoyed dining out and having a great meal. Up until his last days he was often asking for “seconds” and of course dessert. Tiramisu was his favorite. He was active with his physical therapy, enjoyed being outdoors, traveling with family and attending concerts. He was recently able to see his one of favorite band The Eagles, perform in Chicago, the last concert he attended. Tom was a popular participant in the Brookdale (now Hallmark) community where he often dined with friends and shared in social activities.

Tom was known for his fantastic sense of humor and for some of his famous sayings like “indubitably” “details” or “hasta la vista baby” – always delivered with perfect comedic timing. Tom gained great happiness by being around family and friends. They were important to him.

Also, invaluable were the dedicated members of his daily long-term care team. Jem, Arnel, Ahmed and Chris kept him healthy and vibrant. Additionally, the last three years of compassionate care provided by the doctors and nurses at Northwestern Hospital was incomparable. The extensive support Tom received from a wide network commonly referred to as “Team TZ” was instrumental in contributing to his full life.

Remaining to cherish Tom's memory are his sister Karen Z. Gray-Krehbiel and her husband John H. Krehbiel, Jr. His nieces and nephews John David Gray, Alexandra Gray Glikin, Joshua David Glikin and Annabel Nicole Glikin. He is also remembered fondly his many cousins who were very special to Tom.

A small, private service will be held in Chicago. The memorial service to honor and celebrate Tom's life will take place in Akron, Ohio at Billow Funeral Home FAIRLAWN Chapel, 85 North Miller Road at 10:00am on Monday, July 27, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Shirley Ryan Ability Lab, 355 East Erie, Chicago, Illinois 60611, www.sralab.org/give, or the Music Institute of Chicago, 622 Davis Street 4th Fl, Evanston, IL 60201, www.musicinst.org in Thomas Zateslo’s name.

Services in care of the Billow Funeral Homes and Crematory, 85 N. Miller Road Akron, OH 44333 (Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel)