Thomas M. Horrigan

Thomas Michael Horrigan, age 91, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2026, surrounded by his daughters and his devoted caregiver, Ramil.

Born on July 2, 1934, in Peoria, IL, Tom was the son of the late Emmett and Margaret (née Rehder) Horrigan and the youngest of three children. He attended St. Thomas Parish School in Decatur, IL, Cathedral Boys High School in Springfield, IL, and went on to earn his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Illinois Chicago College of Dentistry in 1956. Following graduation, he proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1957 to 1959, stationed at Little Rock Air Force Base. He later completed his Master of Science in Orthodontics at the University of Illinois in 1962.

While studying in Chicago, Tom met the love of his life, Barbara Lynch, through the Catholic Newman Club. They were married in Hialeah, FL on December 27, 1958, and together built a life centered on faith, family, and service. Their marriage was blessed with four daughters: Marjorie, Mary, Maureen, and Megan.

Tom began his orthodontic career with Dr. Vernon Boman in Arlington Heights. In 1963, he opened his own practice with just eight patients. Through dedication, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, he built a distinguished orthodontic practice that served generations of families for nearly fifty years.

A dedicated Orthodontist and lifelong learner, Tom was passionate about his profession and his patients. He continually pursued advanced education and remained at the forefront of orthodontic innovation throughout his career. His contributions to the profession were widely recognized. He served as President of the Illinois Society of Orthodontists, served on the board of the Orthodontic Alumni Association of Illinois, was active in the Midwestern Society of Orthodontists, co-founded the Wisconsin-Illinois Orthodontic Study Club, and shared his expertise as a guest lecturer at the University of Illinois Orthodontic program.

Tom's commitment to service extended far beyond his profession. A devoted member of Our Lady of the Wayside Parish, he played a significant role in the growth of both the parish and the school. He was Chairman of the School Board, active in the Sunshine Boys events, and volunteered his time judging countless science fairs.

Tom embraced life with enthusiasm. He was a gregarious Irishman who enjoyed traveling with Barbara, good wine, and a fine cigar. He was a voracious reader, a student of history and the markets, and found joy in gardening, sports, and music—especially the timeless songs of Frank Sinatra. Most of all, he cherished time spent with his family and friends, whether near or far.

In addition to his parents, Thomas was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara, his brother, Rev. Kevin Horrigan and his sister, Marian Cruse.

He is survived by his daughters, Marjorie (Paul) LaVigne, Mary Horrigan, Maureen (Sean) Winter, and Megan (George Salerno) Horrigan; he is Granddad to, Sarah (Mark) Duggan, Peter (Kelsey) LaVigne, Rachel LaVigne, Mark (Collette) LaVigne, and Joseph LaVigne; and Great Granddad to, Thomas, John, Molly, Henry, Elizabeth, and Alexis as well as special Uncle to his loving nieces and nephews, Kathy (David) Hanley, Kevin (the late Mary) Baker, Terry Baker and Annie Hannon.

Tom leaves behind a legacy of faith, integrity, service, and love. He touched countless lives through his work, his generosity, and his genuine care for others. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans.