Thomas E. Caestecker, Jr.

Thomas Edmund Caestecker Jr., 56, of Wilmette, IL and Green Lake, WI passed away suddenly on August 17, 2025.

Tom was born on December 12, 1968, in Evanston, Illinois, to Ann Bardenheier and Thomas E. Caestecker Sr. He grew up in Winnetka, IL, and graduated from New Trier Township High School in 1987. Tom went on to earn his B.A. from Spring Hill College. He pursued graduate work at the University of Chicago and earned his master’s degree in history from DePaul University.

Tom was an accomplished writer whose work appeared in many publications, including the Chicago Tribune, The Ripon Commonwealth Press and Tasting Panel Magazine. After a career in editing, he made a pivot to work in the wine industry where he was able to engage in both his love for wine and his love for writing. He was a passionate gourmet and oenophile, delighting in creating elaborate meals often inspired by the bounty of his own garden.

Practically from birth, Tom was a die-hard Cubs fan, always enjoying games with his dad and later with his children. As a boy, he cherished summers at Camp Mishawaka, where his children later made their own summer memories. Above all, Tom treasured time at Green Lake, a place he considered his true home, where he enjoyed swimming, boating, and the simple joys of lake life.

Another one of Tom’s many love languages was music. Tom had an impeccable taste in music. One of his favorite things in the world was going to blues clubs in Chicago and sharing his love of music with friends and family. He played the electric guitar, bass, piano, drums and had the most lovely voice. Many who knew him also knew his love of impressions, one of his favorites being the great Harry Caray.

Tom’s greatest devotion was to his family. He and his beloved wife, Donnelly, celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary this year. They were soulmates and best friends, inseparable in every way. Tom was most proud of his three children—Ella, Charles, and Mary Katherine—who were the joy of his life.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Ann and Tom, and his father-in-law, Daniel R. Devereaux. He is survived by his wife and children; his mother-in-law, Jeri Jamieson Devereaux; his sisters-in-law, Elizabeth Devereaux (Darrell Kirk) and Meghan Devereaux Baumstark (Bart Baumstark); his brother-in-law, John Roark; his nephews, Alex Roark, Daniel Baumstark, and Hugh Kirk; his niece, Elizabeth Baumstark; and many beloved cousins.

A memorial service for Tom will be held at 2:00 pm on Monday, August 25, 2025, Heidel House, 653 Illinois Ave., Green Lake, WI 54941, by the lake, with Rev. Karin Derenne officiating. You may view a livestream of the service by visiting this link LIVESTREAM. A celebration of Tom’s life will continue inside Heidel House, Oakwood Restaurant, immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Caestecker Public Library Foundation, PO Box 278 Green Lake, WI 54941.