Holy Resurrection Serbian Orthodox Cathedral is honored to announce the establishment of the Thomas Karacic Endowment Fund, a generous contribution of $50,000 gifted from the trust of our esteemed former legal representative. This fund is a testament to Mr. Karacic’s enduring legacy and commitment to our church community.
Thomas Joseph Karacic, affectionately known as “Tom,” passed away peacefully on May 31, 2024, at the age of 94. A distinguished attorney and beloved member of our community, Tom’s contributions to both our Cathedral and the broader legal and Serbian Orthodox communities have left an indelible mark.
Born on October 9, 1929, in Chicago, Tom’s early years were shaped by the vibrant and industrious Clybourn Corridor. He made history as the first in his family to attend college, graduating with honors from the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana before earning his law degree from Chicago-Kent College of Law in 1954. His service with the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps in Tokyo, Japan, was followed by a distinguished legal career in Chicago, including founding the firm Katz & Karacic. His legal expertise was vast, covering both domestic and business law, and included representation before the Illinois and U.S. Supreme Courts. His dedication was recognized in 2013 with the Royal Decree of the Crown for his service to the Royal House of Serbia and Yugoslavia.
Tom served as the legal representative of Holy Resurrection Serbian Orthodox Cathedral for decades. His unwavering support and counsel were instrumental in guiding the Cathedral through numerous challenges and opportunities. In honor of his lifelong dedication, the Cathedral and Tom’s family have established the Thomas Karacic Endowment Fund. This $50,000 endowment, made possible through his trust, will continue to support and enhance the mission and activities of our Cathedral for years to come.
Tom’s memory will be cherished by his family, including his late wife Rosalie “Anne” Sanfilippo, his children Joseph, Roseanne, Elaine, and the late Gregory, and his second wife Carmelita Bombeck. His generous spirit, humor, and dedication to helping others have left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
The Thomas Karacic Endowment Fund stands as a beacon of his legacy, ensuring that his values and commitment to the Holy Resurrection Serbian Orthodox Cathedral will endure. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Tom Karacic and his family for their profound and enduring gift.
For more information about the Thomas Karacic Endowment Fund or to contribute in his memory, please contact Holy Resurrection Serbian Orthodox Cathedral.
