Thomas Smicklas died after a brave battle against Multiple Myeloma.

Tom was raised in Berwyn, Illinois as the only child of Thomas and Mae Smicklas. Tom liked sports but loved music. Beginning on the accordion at age six, he went on to become an Illinois State Fair Champion accordionist at age ten. He performed widely representing popular polka bands and The Music Center accordion studios in the Chicago area.

Beginning clarinet and later, saxophone, he was named Solo Clarinet of the Illinois All-State Orchestra in 1968 and 1969. Clarinet earned him a full music scholarship to Miami (Ohio) University where he graduated in 1973. Tom decided upon a career in teaching rather than music performance which was inspired by his first band director and private clarinet teacher Frank Boker.

Tom became Director of Bands at Norton City Schools, Green High School, Nordonia City Schools and Shaker Heights High School. Bands under his instruction received top awards for performance at the highest competitive levels and his marching band was featured halftime entertainment for many NFL games. The Nordonia Symphonic Wind Ensemble was the featured concert band at the 1986 American School and Director's National Convention. He was a music judge, music supervisor and Chairman of the Council of Music Supervisors for the Ohio Music Education Association. Receiving a M.A. In Music Supervision and Secondary School Administration, Tom continued his career as a High School Principal until retirement.

Retiring with his beloved wife Margaret to Bolivia, NC in 2009 Tom continued his music aspirations by playing in the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra and conducting both the Brunswick County and North Myrtle Beach Community Bands. He also was a co-founder of the Wilmington Symphonic Winds, where he played clarinet and was Personnel Director. Tom spent eight years as Chairman of the Design and Review Board for RiverSea Plantation, where Margaret and he resided in the home of their dreams.

Tom was a devoted father and husband who was exceptionally proud of his children, USAF Lt. Col. Thomas Smicklas (Prattville AL), USAF Lt. Col. Gail Smicklas (Colorado Springs), USCG Brian Smicklas (Medina County, OH) and Megan (Montrose WV) and eight grandchildren, Mae, Tom, Emma, Ben, Isabelle, Catherine, Owen and Preston. Granddaughter Faith preceded him in death. Daughters- in- law Sarah, Jamie and son- in- law Gabriel maintained a special place in his heart.

A funeral mass will be held at St. Brendan Catholic Church in Shallotte, NC, on December 11^th at 10 am.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to New Hanover Regional Medical Center Zimmer Cancer Clinic or the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, themmrf.org.