Thomas “Tom” Kalapinski Jr., 69, passed away suddenly on September 23, 2025, leaving behind a family who loved him and a life filled with stories, laughter, and countless hours spent under the hood of a car.
Tom was the loving husband of Mary Ellen (nee Boyd) Kalapinski, of nearly 41 years; proud father of Ellen (Phil) Diven, Lori, and Sheila; proud Papa of Charlotte, Callahan, and Campbell, who brought him endless joy and happiness; dear brother of Dave Kalapinski, Debbie (Ivan) Juric, and the late Gary Kalapinski; and son of the late Thomas Sr. and Helen (Serafin) Kalapinski. Tom was also a brother-in-law, uncle, nephew, cousin and friend to many.
Tom was a proud North and South Side guy, known to many simply as “Foot.” Whether you knew him from the neighborhood, the garage, swap meets, or car shows, chances are you had a story about Tom — probably one that ended in a laugh. He had a sharp wit and a way with words — always talking, always joking, and usually telling you something about cars, whether you asked or not.
Tom’s love of classic cars wasn’t just a hobby — it was a part of who he was. He spent countless hours in his garage tinkering, trading parts, or working on his next project, always chasing the next great find, or the perfect set of wheels and tires.
Tom loved going to car shows, grabbing a good pizza, watching Svengoolie on Saturday nights, and catching a game (as long as his team was winning). But more than anything, Tom loved being with his family. One of his greatest joys was watching his grandkids play sports — you could often hear him cheering them on from the sidelines.
Tom was funny without trying, quick with a comeback, and had a way of making ordinary moments feel special. His sudden passing leaves a deep hole in the hearts of those who loved him, but the stories, the laughs, and the sound of a revving engine will always bring him back to us.
Visitation; At Kutis South County Chapel (5255 Lemay Ferry) on Fri. 10/10 from 4-7PM. With funeral mass at St. John’s Catholic Church (Imperial) on Sat. at 10AM. Private interment Calvary Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116 or diabetes.org.
Mary Ellen and Family, I’m so sorry for your loss. When you lived on Winona, Tom was always a joy and a great neighbor ❤️. He was funny and he was always out working on his cars. We enjoyed having your family as friends and neighbors. Please give your family a hug for us. I won’t be able to come to his visitation or funeral because of illness. Prayers for your family.
Vickie Connours
Tom always had a positive attitude and laughed at everything. He turned me onto Dad’s Oatmeal Cookies and we’d always fight over them at Trivia.
So sorry for everyone’s loss Tom will always be a special kind of person whom will be missed and loved by all (especially me) I have the pleasure of memories with him and his family
We love you, Uncle Tom, and we will miss you more than words can ever say. I take comfort in believing that Gary Senior was there, waiting with open arms to welcome you home to the Heavenly Father. I can almost hear his familiar laugh as he teasingly asks, “What took you so long?” before pulling you into a warm embrace. Together, you walk side by side into a blissful eternity — whole, at peace, and surrounded by a love that never ends.
RIP. Sorry I never got to meet you.
Mary Ellen, I’m so sorry for your loss. I’ll be keeping you and your family in my prayers. I’m praying all the wonderful memories bring you peace and comfort in this difficult time. Hugs and Love, Cecilia Cullen Burian
MaryEllen, and daughters, and grandchildren, and the rest of the family, you know that I think Tom was one smart guy to marry into “The Boyd Family.”
I may be prejudiced, as I grew up next door to them, and, as an only child, the Boyds really were my family.. I was a tomboy but I was really happy when they brought my “little sister,”MaryEllen” home from the hospital. You hit the jackpot with her. I always enjoyed being with you, I loved your funny sense of humor. My only regret is that we didn’t spend more time together. I think that is because you didn’t move in next door to me, I would have loved that! Heaven just gained another angel, who will keep everyone entertained for years to come. MaryEllen, hugs, and more hugs to you. I love you💕
Dear Mary Ellen and family,
We are shocked and saddened by this tremendous loss. We loved our times with Tom. He was definitely a lover of automobiles and a great storyteller. Cherish your sweet memories of a colorful life well-lived.
Kay and John