The Honorable Judge Thomas P. Cawley

Thomas Patrick Cawley, 85, beloved husband of Sheila Patricia (nee Clarke) passed away at his home on November 28, 2021. He was the cherished father of Michael, Kathleen, Eileen (Thomas Stein), and Sheila (Stephen Kahnert).  He was the greatly loved grandfather of Thomas, Matthew, Michael (fiancé Madeline Marsan), Martin, Daniel, Emmett, and Liam.

Tom was the son of Thomas Patrick Cawley (County Mayo) and Margaret Ellen (nee McHugh), and brother to Kathleen Renner (d. 1978) (Daniel), Margaret Mary O'Hara (d. 2006) (Michael d. 2015), Ellen (Francis Carr) and Judy (Vincent Monaghan). He was uncle, brother-in-law, and friend to many.

He lived in the Chicago area his entire life, and attended St. Peter Canisius, Quigley, Loyola University, and Loyola Law School. He earned his Law degree in 1961 and began his career as a Public Defender.  He was appointed to the judiciary in 1974 and elected as a Cook County Circuit Court Judge in 1977 where he served until retirement in 1995. He served with distinction in his roles within the Criminal and Civil Divisions.

Tom was known for his stories about growing up on the west side of Chicago and his days as a Public Defender and Judge. He was very proud of his Chicago heritage and served as a founding member of the Shannon Rovers and the 37th Ward Young Democrats organization.  Tom was also a lifelong member of the Stewart's Club.

Tom and Sheila traveled the world in retirement and truly enjoyed their time together sharing experiences and adventures with all who knew them.  But his true passion was his love for and dedication to his family.  He saved his best for all of us and no one could have done it better.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday December 1 from 3-8pm and Thursday 8:30-9:30am at Cooney's Funeral Home, 625 North Busse Highway, Park Ridge. A Funeral Mass will take place on Thursday December 2 at 10am at Mary Seat of Wisdom Church, 920 Granville, Park Ridge.  Interment immediately following at All Saints Cemetery.  For information please call 847-685-1002 or visit www.cooneyfuneralhome.com