GoFundMe Started To Help Cover Final Costs Of Thomas Stachon, 7

PALOS HILLS, IL — As a Palos Hills family mourns the unexpected death of an Oak Ridge Elementary School second-grader, family members have started a GoFundMe campaign to help with funeral costs and other related expenses.

Thomas Stachon, 7, died after a brief illness. The boy had been happy and healthy until he suddenly took ill and was placed in an induced coma due to brain inflammation. Thomas died on Dec. 8 after Mass was said at his bedside.

“His untimely departure has created a profound void in the hearts of those who held him dear – as a beloved son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend,” said Juan Quintero, the boy’s uncle. In this challenging time, we are reaching out to our friends, family, and community for support. The Stachon family is facing unexpected expenses related to Tommy's passing, including funeral costs and other unforeseen financial burdens.”

>>> Support for the Stachon Family in Memory of Thomas

Family members said the boy they called Tommy exemplified the spirit of generosity, giving renewed life to four other children through organ donation.

“This not only provides them with hope and a future but also ensures that Tommy's legacy of kindness transcends his time with us, leaving a lasting imprint on the lives he has touched.”

Thomas was described as a vibrant and compassionate young boy, who loved roughhousing with his brothers, building Legos, playing soccer and could often be heard singing the Haaland chant. His contagious smile lit up a room.

In addition to funeral costs, donations will go toward grief counseling, out-of-pocket medical costs, and to provide a foundation for the family to cope with this loss. Visit “Support for the Stachon Family In Memory of Thomas” to make a donation.

Visitation for Thomas will take place from 4 to 8 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 14, at Skaja Terrace Funeral Home, 7812 N. Milwaukee Ave., Niles. The funeral procession will leave the funeral home at 10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 15, to St. Rosalie Church, 6750 W. Montrose Ave., Harwood Heights, for the funeral Mass at 11 a.m.