Obituary: Thomas L. Bajt

Obituary was published and funeral arrangements were entrusted to the care and direction of the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory​.

Thomas L. Bajt

Born January 9, 1932, Thomas passed away peacefully at the age of 94 on Sunday, June 7, 2026 under hospice care at Willow Falls Senior Living with family at his side.

Thomas is survived by his three sons Thomas C. Bajt (Maryiann Wrobel), Stephen Bajt (Courtney Clinton), and Robert Bajt (Julie Bajt). He was the proud grandfather of Thomas J. Bajt (T.J.) and Danny Bajt. He is also survived by his sister Patricia Moore, as well as numerous nephews, and a niece.

Thomas was preceded in death of his wife, Sybella Bajt (Marso) as well as his parents, Thomas and Francis (Minarich) Bajt.

Thomas was a lifelong resident of Joliet. He attended St. Raymond’s and then Joliet Catholic High, continuing to Joliet Jr. College where he earned his Associates Degree in Business. He played football while at Joliet Catholic High, as well as at JJC. He was proud to wear both uniforms and met many friends, who he still kept in contact with. He was also proud to be on the JJC team that played the first game at the newly built Memorial Stadium.

Thomas enlisted in the United States Air Force during the Korean War, serving from 1952-1956.He was assigned to the 17^th Air Police Squadron with the 17^th Fighter Bomber Wing. During his tour of duty, he was stationed at various locations in TX, CA, Iceland, Korea, Japan and UT. During his military career, he learned his attention to detail, organization, and dress. That is where he coined his phrase “there is a place for everything, and everything should be in its place”.

He was exceptionally proud to be a part of the building of the State of IL High-rise in downtown Chicago.

He was exceptionally proud to be a part of the building of the State of IL High-rise in downtown Chicago.

He was exceptionally proud to be a part of the building of the State of IL High-rise in downtown Chicago.

Upon returning home from the Service, he worked for Chicago Bridge and Iron. Shortly after that, he found his career with National Gypsum Company, selling building materials throughout the Chicago land area. It was here that his friendly nature and knack of selling, earning him many rewards and often being the Top Salesman of many years. He was exceptionally proud to be a part of the building of the State of IL High-rise in downtown Chicago. It was here that he became an avid Chicago White Sox fan and held season tickets for over 20 years. He became known as “Tommy White Sox”.

Thomas built his home for his family in Camelot, raising his children and providing for them. All of whom became professionals in their fields. Thomas still lived in the house up until his health declined, shortly before his passing. He simply enjoyed taking care of the yard and sitting out front waving at neighbors and visiting when they stopped by. Thomas was also involved with Meals on Wheels during his retirement, as well as being the point person on arranging many class reunions. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

The family would like to extend their deepest appreciation to the staff at Willow Falls Senior Living, and a special thanks to his favorite aide, Autumn. They also would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to his special friend, Patti Crise in Valparaiso, IN.

Visitation for Thomas L. Bajt will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd., Joliet, from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at the Cathedral of St. Raymond at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at St. Mary Nativity Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care.

For more information, please call (815) 741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com.

·Visit Fred C. Dames on Facebook​

·Order Flowers​

·Healing Resources​