Remembering Tom Horwich

Thomas Horwich, known familiarly as “Tom,” was a giant in the real estate industry, but also devoted much of his life to championing the underdog. He died on Oct. 31, at age 82. 

Horwich-a Hyde Park native who spent most of his life in Winnetka-served on the JUF Board from 1989 to 1995, and chaired its Disabilities Committee during the following decade. He also served on the board of the Jewish Children’s Bureau (now JCFS Chicago).

Having supported JUF for over 50 years, he and his wife Vicki have been Golden Givers to the JUF Annual Campaign. Horwich was proud of being the grandson of Bernard Horwich, the namesake for the Bernard Horwich JCC in West Rogers Park. 

Strong advocates for inclusion, Horwich and Vicki worked tirelessly to expand community-based services for people with disabilities. He oversaw the creation of a strategic roadmap that was a precursor to JUF’s Encompass program, which serves Jewish adults with special needs. 

“Tom shared this spirit of compassion and generosity to those with disabilities, giving both his time and considerable financial support, throughout his lifetime,” said Jodi Newmark, Encompass Director.

The couple also believed in leveling the playing field when it comes to equal access to higher education, and supported the dreams of financially disadvantaged students. “Tom was always a champion of the underdog, generously funding scholarships for high school and college students who would not otherwise be able to pursue their academic goals,” Newmark said.

Professionally, Horwich was co-owner of Rubloff Residential Properties, one of the largest and oldest real estate companies in Chicago. The company was acquired in 2009, but Horwich remained part of the leadership team once it became known as Prudential Rubloff Properties, and later Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago.  

In his spare time, Horwich was an avid golfer and also loved to travel-and visited everywhere from the Inca Trail and the Galapagos Islands, down to Australia, and up to the Arctic Circle. But he also found boundless happiness just hanging out with his Vicki, his two grown children, and two granddaughters. He also loved just walking his golden retrievers, who inspired him to establish the first dog beach in Winnetka.

“Tom Horwich was a friend to many and a shining example of a leader who put family, community, and service to others ahead of self,” said Steven B. Nasatir, JUF Executive Vice Chairman.

Thomas Horwich is survived by his wife Vicki (nee Brown), his children, Jamie (David Thompson) and Douglas, and his granddaughters, Lyla and Zoe Thompson. He was the dear brother of Jim (Ada) Horwich. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Evans Scholars, or to Thresholds. Arrangements were made by Chicago Jewish Funerals.