Thomas (Tom) Russell Kuhn, 74, of Huntley, found peace on March 30, 2026, after a brave battle with cancer and with his family by his side.
Tom was born September 11, 1951, in Syracuse, New York, the son of John and Dorothy (Benedict) Kuhn. On January 8, 1977, he married Julie Bagans, beginning a 49-year partnership built on love, respect, and shared passion for science and engineering. He enjoyed travelling and was fortunate to live coast-to-coast throughout the years: San Diego, New York City metro, and Chicago suburbs.
Tom graduated from Le Moyne College in Syracuse and went on to earn two master’s degrees from the University of Illinois in both Physics and Nuclear Engineering. A brilliant and endlessly curious mind, he was known as the ultimate tinkerer—always taking things apart to better understand and improve upon them.
His enthusiasm for science and math led him down multiple paths in his storied career including studying radiation-exposure of the atomic bomb in Hiroshima, designing nuclear reactor controls, contributing to building the Hubble telescope, and consulting on science laboratories in schools and universities. Finally, finishing his career by mentoring the next generation of scientists teaching at Chicago-area universities. Known to many as “Professor Kuhn,” he loved teaching and had a gift for explaining complex ideas in ways that inspired and engaged his students.
After retirement, he found a new calling as “handy man” to his daughters. He loved being creative with home improvement projects and helping with repairs and improvements at their homes.
He was preceded in death by both of his parents and one brother, Ron. He is survived by his beloved wife, Julie; his daughters, Laura and Emily (Robert Slabik); his brother, John; and his nephews, Phillip and Mark.
He will be remembered as a loving and devoted husband, father, brother, and friend whose intelligence, easy going nature, and silly sense of humor brightened the world around him.
Tom’s life will be celebrated on Saturday, April 18 at Our Redeemer’s United Methodist Church, 1600 W Schaumburg Rd. in Schaumburg, with visitation at 10 am followed by a Service at 11 am. In lieu of flowers, honorary donations in Tom’s name to The Morton Arboretum or to Our Redeemer’s United Methodist Church are appreciated.
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I am so sorry for your loss. My heart hurts for Tom’s family. He was a special man to his family and friends. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers.
So sorry to hear. Tom was a great guy and we will all miss him. Was great to see him with Julie at our last two roommate reunions. Hugs to Julie, their daughters, and the rest of Tom’s family..