Thomas was born September 30, 1962, in Sterling, IL, the son of Thomas D. and Ruth M. (Balk) McFadden. He graduated from Newman Central Catholic High School in Sterling in 1980, and went on to work in a variety of fields throughout his career. Thomas was an avid Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears fan. He enjoyed playing guitar, listening to music, and collecting vinyl records and CDs. As a dog lover, he spent many hours volunteering at Granny Rose Animal Shelter in Dixon.
He is survived by three sisters, Anne (Tim) Nehrkorn of Rock Falls, Theresa (Robert) Burger of Rock Falls, and Susan (Jim) Steffey of Harrison, OH; nieces and nephews, Karina (Christopher) Nehrkorn of Sterling, Drew (Haley) Burger of Rock Falls, CJ Steffey of Middletown, OH, and Logan Steffey of Harrison, OH; one great niece; and one great nephew.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister.
A gathering of family and friends will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026 from 9:00 – 10:00 AM at St. Andrew Catholic Church in Rock Falls. Celebration of the Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:00 AM with Reverend Richard Russo officiating. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery in Sterling following Mass.
Memorials have been established to Granny Rose Animal Shelter and Compassus Hospice.
Online condolences may be sent to www.mcdonaldfuneralhomes.com.
