Thomas Conrad Ehlebracht

Tom passed away peacefully in his home in Warsaw, Missouri at the age of 68. He spent 65 years of his life in Homewood, Illinois.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Conrad "Coke" and Helen Ehlebracht née Nielsen and his sister Tammy Ehlebracht. He was the grandson of the late Thorvald and Erna Nielsen and Charles and Mildred Ehlebracht. He was the godson of the late Tom and Lynn Welsh.

Tom is survived by his sister, Tina Laughlin and brother, Timothy (Suzanne) Ehlebracht. He was the loving uncle to Matthew, Daniel, and Samuel Laughlin and Brooke (Brandon) Svec and Samantha Ehlebracht. He was the great uncle to Montgomery, Max, Liam, Lucas, Logan, Levi, and Elliana.

Tom was paralyzed in a diving accident during an initiation into a high school club when he was 16 years old. He persevered for 52 years confined to a wheelchair through the unwavering support of his parents, family, and friends.

After missing his entire sophomore year of high school, Tom was able to graduate, on time, with his Homewood-Flossmoor High School class of 1973. He graduated in the top 10% of his class and was a member of the National Honor Society.

One of Tom's greatest accomplishments was to graduate with highest honors in accounting from the University of Illinois, in Champaign, Illinois.

Tom's gentle nature and kindness made him a popular and respected friend to many. His courage and strength to overcome his handicap was an inspiration to all that knew him. He will be missed by so many family relatives, and friends.

All are invited to help celebrate Tom's life at Tews-Ryan Funeral Home located at 18230 Dixie Hwy in Homewood on Saturday, October 14th, from 1 to 3 PM. A short memorial service will follow from 3 to 3:30 PM.

All family, relatives, and friends are invited to continue the celebration of Tom's life at the 5th Quarter and Press Room Eatery for food and beverages immediately following the memorial service. The 5th Quarter is located at 18105 Dixie Hwy in Homewood.