Thomas A. Kelly, age 78, of Chicago. Retired Forensic Investigator/Crime Lab for the Chicago Police Department. Beloved Security Officer/Bullpen Specialist for the Chicago White Sox. Loving father of Tracy Kelly, Dan Kelly, Kristyn Kelly and Katy (Tommy) Insley. Proud grandfather of Austin (Taylor) Kelly, Madison, Avery and Kelly Insley and Alex, Eoin and Andrew Kelly. Fun great grandfather of Eli, Kane and Maeve Kelly. Dear brother of Arthur (Judi) Kelly, MaryRita Ryder, Patti (Mark) Kelly-Ortiz, Annice (Jeff Petrovski) Kelly, Vincent Kelly, Joseph (Tina) Kelly, Stephen Kelly, the late Timothy (Claire) Kelly and Michael (Carol) Kelly. Favorite cousin of Mimi Miller. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends in the CPD and the Chicago White Sox community.

Family and friends will be received at St. Stephen Deacon and Martyr Catholic Church, 17500 84th Avenue in Tinley Park on Wednesday July 22, 2026 from 9:00am until time of the Funeral Mass at 11:00am. Interment will remain private. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation (www.cpdmemorial.org) , the GlenMary  Home Missioners (www.glenmary.org) or the Dyslexia Foundation (www.dyslexiafoundation.org) would be appreciated.

Arrangements entrusted to The Original Kuratko Family, Brian D. Kuratko-Director, Further info at 708-F-U-N-E-R-A-L

From Tom's Family

With heavy hearts, we share that our beloved father, Thomas A. Kelly, known to his family and friends as "TK" and "BumperT", has passed away at the age of 78.

TK was a devoted father to his four children, a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren, and a loving great-grandfather to three great-grandchildren. His family was the center of his world, and nothing brought him greater happiness than watching his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren grow. He delighted in their little antics, celebrated every milestone, and never missed an opportunity to spoil them with hugs, candy, bubble gum, and unconditional love. His generosity knew no bounds, and his family will forever cherish the countless ways he made each of us feel special.

As the oldest of ten children, TK naturally stepped into the role of big brother early in life. Long before he became a Chicago police officer, he was already honing his "law enforcement skills" on his younger brothers and sisters. Family members still laugh as they remember him practicing with his handcuffs and reassuring them with a grin that "it doesn't hurt." It became one of the many stories that would be shared and retold for generations, capturing his mischievous sense of humor and the special bond he shared with his siblings.

TK dedicated 30 years of his life to serving the people of Chicago as a Chicago police officer, retiring as Forensic Investigator in the Crime Lab. His commitment to justice, integrity, and public service earned him the respect of his colleagues and all who knew him.

His passion for baseball led him to a second career with the Chicago White Sox, where he faithfully worked as security in the home bullpen for an incredible 45 seasons. He cherished the friendships he made there and took great pride in being part of the White Sox family.

A man of deep faith, TK was also a student with the Glenmary Missionaries. Throughout his life, he remained committed to their mission, spending many years visiting Glenmary missions and generously supporting their ministry through both his time and charitable donations. His compassion and desire to help others reflected the values he carried throughout his life.

TK also believed deeply in giving back to his community. For more than 50 years, he devoted countless hours as a volunteer with the 4-H Club, mentoring and encouraging generations of young people. His dedication to helping others grow and succeed was one of the many ways he quietly made a lasting difference in the lives of those around him.

For many years, TK was also known throughout the Chicago Police Department as "BumperT" the Chicago Police Clown. A natural entertainer with a heart full of joy, he brought laughter wherever he went. His faithful invisible dog, Spot, was always by his side, and audiences—especially children—could hardly contain their laughter when BumperT would mischievously make Spot "piddle." Whether he was performing at community events, police functions, or simply brightening someone's day, TK's quick wit, playful spirit, and gift for making people laugh made him unforgettable. He was a true comedian, a kid at heart, and believed that bringing smiles to others was one of life's greatest callings.

One of the roles TK treasured most was bringing joy to children as Santa Claus. He first put on the red suit at the age of 16, and as the years passed, his hair and beard naturally grew into the part, making him a truly authentic Santa. Every Christmas season, he delighted hundreds of children with his warm smile, gentle laugh, and generous spirit. Whether visiting the homes of Chicago White Sox players, close family, friends, neighbors, or community gatherings, TK cherished every child's smile and believed there was no greater gift than keeping the magic of Christmas alive.

TK found joy in life's simple pleasures. He had a deep appreciation for beautifully crafted custom-made pipes, enjoying both their artistry and craftsmanship. The Christmas season was especially dear to him, and family and friends eagerly looked forward to his famous special-flavored Christmas cookies, a tradition that brought warmth, laughter, and togetherness year after year.

Those who knew TK will remember his strength, quiet dedication, gentle spirit, sense of humor, and generous heart. Whether he was serving his city, supporting his church, volunteering in his community, performing as Bumper T., making children believe in Santa, sharing cookies around the holidays, or simply handing a grandchild a piece of bubble gum with a smile, TK made everyone around him feel loved. He gave freely of his time, his talents, and his heart, always putting others before himself.

Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in the memories he leaves behind and in the lasting legacy of love, honor, faith, kindness, and generosity that he instilled in all of us. His example will continue to guide us, and the traditions he created will live on through every Christmas cookie baked, every story told, every act of kindness shared, and every smile inspired by his memory. We ask that you keep our family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Rest in peace, Dad. Your watch is over, but your love, your faith, your laughter, and your legacy will live on in each of us forever. Thank you for showing us that a life well lived is measured not by what we accumulate, but by how deeply we love, how generously we give, and how many lives we brighten along the way. We will miss you beyond words and love you always.