Thomas Salansky Obituary

Thomas "Tom" Mark Salansky
Thomas "Tom" Mark Salansky of Downers Grove, IL, lovingly known as "Sal" to those closest to him, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on October 6, 2025 at the age of 70 years old.
Tom faced life's challenges with extraordinary strength and resilience. A survivor of stage 4 squamous cell carcinoma and a courageous fighter against multiple sclerosis and lupus, he met every trial with the same determination and perseverance that defined his life.
A man of deep faith, Tom was a devoted Christian who carried his belief in God into every part of his life. He shared the love of Christ with all who would listen and was a source of encouragement and quiet wisdom to those around him.
In his younger years, Tom was a gifted athlete remembered for leading the Lincoln, IL High School football team to their one and only conference championship. On the baseball field, his speed and skill at third base earned him the nickname "White Shoes." Off the field, Tom carried his love for sports into a lifelong passion for golf and time spent outdoors.
Music, especially classic rock (particularly Steely Dan & Eric Clapton), was another of Tom's joys-his life had its own soundtrack, one filled with energy, grit, and heart.
Tom's greatest joy came from his family. He was the beloved husband of Stephanie for 42 years, a proud father to Alexandria (Matthew) Gohla and Nicole (David) Zenger, and adoring grandfather to Madison and Magnolia Gohla and Eva Zenger. He was a devoted brother to Tim (Linda) Salansky, Paul Jr. (Debbie) Salansky, Julie (Tony) Vallo & Philip (Jennifer) Salansky, and a loving uncle and great-uncle to many. He is preceded in death by his parents Paul & Betty Salansky.
Tom will be remembered for his quiet strength, his unwavering love, and his fierce loyalty to those he cared for. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, perseverance, and devotion. He fought until the very end and now rests peacefully, surrounded by the love of those who will carry his memory forward.
In lieu of flowers, the family is raising funds to establish the Tom Salansky Memorial Scholarship Fund, established to honor Tom's legacy as a dedicated athlete and lifelong supporter of youth sports. This scholarship will benefit underprivileged student-athletes at Lincoln High School who exemplify determination, perseverance, and character both on and off the field. Every dollar raised will go directly toward establishing the scholarship through Lincoln High School Foundation through a lump sum donation.
You can contribute securely via PayPal here: paypal.me/SalanskyScholarship
For those who wish to give to additional causes close to Tom's heart, contributions may also be made to:
National Multiple Sclerosis Society – www.nationalmssociety.org
Supporting ongoing research, advocacy, and care for those living with MS.
American Cancer Society – www.cancer.org
Funding lifesaving cancer research, education, and patient support programs.