Chicago loses a creative force and beloved friend. The Chicago production community is mourning the loss of Thomas Paul ‘Tom’ Kwilosz, who passed away on July 29, 2025, at the age of 72.
As founder and president of ThereMedia, Tom built one of Chicago’s most distinctive creative shops. For more than 40 years, his studio delivered editorial, animation, special effects, and full-scale production. After 18 years in an iconoclastic space at 1351 W. Grand Ave, Tom Kwilosz’ ThereMedia moved its editorial/ animation services in 2004 to an elegant brownstone at 11 E. Division, just blocks from its Michigan Avenue clients. At the time, those clients included J. Walter Thompson (Kraft, Western Union); BBDO (Bayer’s); Eicoff (Liberty Medical) and ESW (Options Express).
Tom’s career was defined by both craft and connection. He was a producer and director whose work was sharp, imaginative, and deeply personal. Yet those who knew him remember more than the final product, they remember the way he worked. Tom welcomed collaboration, shared his knowledge freely, and treated every client, crew member, and creative partner with respect and genuine interest.
Friends and colleagues often mention his humor, patience, and ability to make anyone feel at home in the studio. He championed Chicago’s independent production scene, helping to shape not just projects, but the careers and confidence of those around him.
Here are just a few of the many posts on social media from Tom’s friends and loved ones:
“Tom was optimistic and realistic at the same time, and he put into place a plan to keep ThereMedia in operation without a hitch. Like most of his plans, it’s going well (if you discount the bleakness). We have no intention of letting Tom down in this regard.” — Mark Dolnick
“This is such heartbreaking news. Tom was a genuinely beautiful person, so easy with his warmth and wit. And such great taste, too. It wasn’t nearly often enough, but I so enjoyed spending time with him. Even brief moments with Tom made me feel better about…everything.” — Rich Moskal
“I had the privilege of working with Tom and also having him as a member of my family. He used to hand-draw birthday cards for me when I was a kid. That simple act of kindness had a big impact on my life and career path. Tom was a rare combination of kindness and creativity. His passion for excellence was contagious, but his generous spirit made me understand how important it is to be kind. I only wish I could have worked with him more.” — Frank Lawlor
“Tragic news, saddened to see this. Tom was one in a million, a person that forged great personal relationships through stellar work coupled with caring and kindness. Never a hard sell, always checking in to maintain the bond. Tom was the consummate pro, someone who would go out of his way to make sure he brought the best work. And that was a sure-fire path to continued success for Tom’s team, along with great results for clients. Win-win exponentially. I consider myself fortunate to have crossed paths with Tom, and hate to see the man has passed. Condolences to all who knew him, his family was blessed to have him as their own. Godspeed, sir.” — Jeff Pazen
In a city built on relationships, Tom forged some of the strongest. His passing leaves a void in the creative fabric of Chicago, but his influence will live on — in the countless edits he shaped, the ideas he brought to life, and the people he inspired.
Tom Kwilosz will be remembered not only for the work he produced, but for the way he made people feel: respected, inspired, and part of something worth building together.
A Memorial Service is planned for Saturday, August 16, 2025 at 11:00 a.m., at Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 203 S Kensington Ave, La Grange, IL 60525.
