Thomas Lane

Tom Lane was born November 1, 1955 in Wallingford, CT to George Ryland Lane, and Irene Benyi. His father, originally from Richmond, Virginia, was a police officer and his mother, from Wallingford, was a housewife. His father also had a daughter, Tom’s half-sister, Sharon Draine, from a previous relationship. Growing up in Wallingford as a single child in his household, Tom graduated from Mark T. Shehan High School in 1973. He graduated from the University of Connecticut, class of 1977 and later earned his masters from The University of Chicago, class of 1978. It was while here that Tom fell in love with the city of Chicago, where he spent the remainder of his life. During his time in Chicago, he got into the financing industry, later spending a career with the American Tobacco Company. Following his retirement, he briefly worked in the consumer automotive industry before becoming a professional photographer, a career he held until he passed. Tom met Wendy, and fell in love. Together they had a son, Patrick, which he unfortunately didn’t get to see grow up as Tom and Wendy separated soon after. The search for his son is still a continuous mission. Ever a collector, Tom had a passion for Roman coins, which he maintained for most of his life. He also became an avid collector of military memorabilia, starting in the early 90s. This interest led him to becoming one of the nation’s foremost experts on the Purple Heart medal and the memorialization of the men and women who earned the medal through their sacrifice in the service of our country. Tom also had a creative side. He developed a passion and talent in art and glamour photography. The relationships he had with his fellow artists were truly unique. He was a kind person with a great sense of humor, and also a very fierce friend. He helped many out of bad situations and gave positive counsel as well. After a long life of chain-smoking, Tom decided to quit 2013. It was a good decision to make in light of his slowly declining health. He had a lot of support from the close friends he had made throughout his life, who were always ready to provide encouragement through difficult times. Even though he was the only child growing up, he made a family of his own through his art and collector circles, where he will be deeply and truly missed by all who knew him. Tom is survived by his half-sister, Sharon, his former wife, Wendy, his son, Patrick, and a large family of collecting and photography friends. Arrangements entrusted to Chicagoland Cremation Options of Schiller Park, IL.