Tommy Kraus

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Tommy’s greatest accomplishment and joy in life was being a father to Sam, Mitch, and Kyle.

Thomas “Tommy” Anthony Kraus, 58, late of Islamorada FL., formerly of Tinley Park IL. and Orland Park IL. Beloved Son of the late John Kraus and Elizabeth Kraus. Loving Father of Sam (Madison) Kraus, Mitch (Emily) Kraus, and Kyle Kraus. Caring brother of Debbie Toomey, and Jack (Mary) Kraus. Dear Uncle, Cousin, Coach, Mentor, and Friend to many.

Tommy grew up in Tinley Park where he attended Saint George Catholic School and Providence Catholic School. Following his graduation, Tommy made a name for himself in the service industry across Chicagoland at Ditka’s and Jack Gibbon’s Gardens. Tommy proudly served his community as an Orland Township Trustee, where he chaired the Senior Services Committee. He also dedicated his time to coaching youth sports with the Orland Park Pioneers and Tinley Park Bulldogs. Tommy cherished spending time with family and friends in Sister Lakes, Michigan, and was a fan of Chicago sports teams.

Tommy (Gus Santos) moved to Islamorada, Florida and embraced being a stay-at-home Dad to Sam, Mitch, and Kyle. In the Florida Keys he found new adventures fishing, boating, and enjoying the local watering holes. He continued to Coach youth sports and later moved-up to coaching football and basketball at Coral Shores High School. Tommy served the Upper Keys community and supported many local businesses throughout the years with his screenprinting shop, Keys Custom Tees.

Known to be a great friend, Tommy always lit up any room that he walked into. He cared deeply about making people feel accepted and loved. He was extremely proud to be a mentor to many young men and women during his time as a Coach, and continued his support long after they were off the field. Above all, Tommy’s greatest accomplishment and joy in life was being a father to Sam, Mitch, and Kyle.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 12, 2026, from 3:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Vandenberg Funeral Home, 17248 Harlem Avenue, Tinley Park, IL 60477. Funeral Service will commence on Friday, November 13, 2026, at 11:30 AM at St. George Catholic Church, 6700 176th St, Tinley Park, IL 60477. A celebration of life will be held on December 5, 2026 from 1:00 PM until 3:00 PM at Caribbean Club, 104080 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037.