Retired CFD FF remembered by many

Excerpts from ChicagoSun-Times.com:

When Tom Raychek was found dead on November 24 in his mobile home in Belvidere, it seemed he had no one left in the world.

But as news of the 64-year-old retired firefighter’s passing spread online, a wave of emotion swept across the Chicago Fire Department and beyond. Colleagues, friends, and even strangers began sharing stories about him—of his bravery, kindness, and dedication. Social media became a place of remembrance, with thousands of posts highlighting his life and legacy.

Tom had been part of a major recovery effort after the 1994 American Eagle Flight 4184 crash in Roselawn, Indiana, where 68 people lost their lives. He also volunteered at Misericordia and helped maintain a firefighters’ memorial at Rosehill Cemetery. His former battalion chief, Bill Kugelman, shared that Tom had spent part of his childhood in foster care, which inspired him to collect toys for underprivileged children.

Though he was believed to be alone, it turned out Tom had relatives out of state, who were eventually located by local authorities. Funeral arrangements are now being made, and two organizations—Ignite the Spirit and the Fire Chaplains’ Ministry Fund—are offering financial assistance if needed. Chicago Fire Department chaplain Thomas Mulcrone described Tom as “a great guy and an excellent fireman.”

After retiring around 15 years ago, Tom drifted away from many colleagues. Some thought he had moved to Wisconsin, but in recent years, he lived at Greenview Estates in Belvidere. Kelli Gavril Goodmonson, a community manager, remembered him as a kind and smiling man. She checked on him after neighbors reported not seeing him, and found him deceased due to natural causes.

Goodmonson had seen a photo of Tom rescuing a baby during a fire and posted it on Facebook, hoping to honor him. The post went viral, connecting people across the country. Many recognized him and shared memories of his generosity and service. “The brotherhood is amazing,” she said. “It’s so solid and unconditional.”

Tom had also been involved in various community efforts, including helping restore a firefighters’ memorial for a film scene and donating gifts to a learning center for the disabled. His former chief called him “a soft-hearted man who always did good deeds.”

Now, the department is preparing an honor guard and bagpipers to pay tribute to his final farewell. As the story spreads, it reminds us of the impact one person can have—even when they feel forgotten.