Thomas A. Stone

Thomas A. Stone, 60, Woodstock, died Monday, Jan. 21, 2013, at Florence Nursing Home, Marengo, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

He was born Jan. 16, 1953, in Woodstock to Charles and Mary F. (Horick) Stone.

He was one of a small group of developmentally disabled people whose parents founded what would evolve into Pioneer Center For Human Services.

He graduated from Special Education District of McHenry County in Woodstock in 1974 and attended Pioneer Center’s workshop in McHenry for the next 34 years. He was a gentle and sweet man who loved traveling, going to movies and going out to eat. He enjoyed bowling with Northern Illinois Special Recreation District, Disney characters, The Beatles, his family and his many friends.

Survivors include a sister, Kathleen Stone, Woodstock; a niece, Michelle (Nick) Antes, Kenosha, Wis.; and a nephew, Charles “Chip” Stone, Lake In The Hills.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Mary Jo Stone; a brother, Charles A. “Skip” Stone; and several aunts and uncles.

The family would like to extend special thanks to the staff at Florence Nursing Home, who cared for him as if he was a member of each of their families.  

Visitation was Jan. 24 at Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock, and Jan 25, at St. Mary Catholic Church, Woodstock.

The funeral Mass was Jan. 25 at the church.  

Interment followed at Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Woodstock.

Memorials can be sent to the Developmental Disabilities Program of Pioneer Center, 4001 Dayton St., McHenry, IL 60050.