Retired USMC Major Thomas J. Wise Jr, age 86, passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side January 30, 2026 at Lightways Hospice in Joliet. Thomas was born February 2, 1939 to Thomas and Evelyn Wise in Joliet, IL. After meeting at the age of 17, Tom married the love of his life, Kathryn, on May 9, 1959 and spent 66 years happily married. Together, they created a family he adored. With 3 kids, 12 grandchildren, and 19 great-grandchildren, he showed love, respect, and pride in each one; nothing made him smile more than spending time with his great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife Kathryn, daughter Sharon (Donald) Welch, and sons Thomas Patrick (Nancy) Wise and Michael (Jill) Wise; grandchildren Melissa (Greg) New, Justin (Lauren) Wise, Steven (Lindsay) Welch, Taryn (Geoff) Price, Jacob (Ashley) Wise, Kim (Nick Crudele) Welch, Michael (Samantha) Wise, Shaina Wise, Janai (Adam) Olsen, Jordan (McKenzie) Wise, and Rayanne (Nic Zey); and Great-Grandchildren Emily, Max, Tommy, Alex, Leah, Daniel, Teagan, Anna, Audrey, Raymond, Riley, Josie, Sofia, Abel, Andy-Rae, Riker, Freya, William, and Leona.

Thomas is preceded in death by his parents Thomas Wise Sr. and Evelyn Wise; siblings Michal Susan, Tim, Terry, and Maggie; and granddaughter Tarah Wise.

Thomas proudly served 20 years in the United States Marine Corps from 1957-1977. He served 3 campaigns in the Vietnam War. His pride in his service inspired his son and Grandsons to serve the country in the Marine Corps, Army, and Coast Guard.

Thomas was also highly dedicated to his education earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Operations Research-United States Naval Postgraduate School, Electrical Engineering Degree from Marquette University, Master of Arts in Human Resource Management from Pepperdine University, and Master of Business from Lewis University.

Tom was a devoted member of the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus where he served as Eucharistic Minister, Wedding Coordinator and Lector for daily Mass.

His sense of humor, quick wit, and love of his family will be missed by all that knew him.

The family would like to share their gratitude for the doctors and nurses that have cared for Tom; particularly over the last few years. A special thank-you, for the nurses at Lightways Hospice for your kindness and care during a difficult time.

Visitation will be held Friday, February 27th from 10-11AM at Carlson Holmquist-Sayles Funeral home at 2320 Black Rd. Joliet. A mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:30 AM at the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus Friday February 27th. Interment will take place at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donation to be made to the American Cancer Society, Lightways Hospice, or your local VFW.