Thomas Post lived a life steeped in kindness, generosity and commitment to his family and community.
Post was synonymous with the Palos Park Lions Club, an organization he championed for more than 50 years. When the longtime Palos Park resident died last year at the age of 78, he left an indelible mark on the club and on his family.
In honor of their grandfather’s memory, Tom’s grandchildren – Bella, Mia, Chance and Indy Narciso of Palos Park – have launched the Leo Club of Palos. This youth-driven, community based service organization, with the guidance and support of the Palos Lions Club, will focus on supporting local shelters, organizing food drives and improving the Palos community, according to its founders. The Palos chapter now joins over 7,700 Leo Clubs with over 200,000 Leos in over 150 countries.
“Our dad was an amazing man,” said daughter Gina Narciso, who is the advisor to the newly-formed Leo Club. “He had a heart of gold and a spirit to match. He will be sorely missed, but his legacy will live on.”
The Leo Club of Palos kicked off its mission Aug. 8 with an induction ceremony at the Palos Park Recreation Center. With local dignitaries and Palos Lions Club members in attendance, the new members officially started their new teen-based service group.
The goal will be to give back to their community while continuing the Lions Club legacy of kindness and generosity that was synonymous with Thomas Post.
Grandson Chance Narciso said he was excited about continuing in the footsteps of his grandfather.
“We’re excited to bring the community together in celebration of our grandfather’s life and to support the causes he cared deeply about. We invite anyone ages 12-18 to join the Leo Club of Palos and learn the importance of serving others and making our community a better place.”
Gina Narciso said her father was known for his unwavering commitment to helping those in need.
“Throughout his life, he dedicated countless hours to the Lions Club, organized community events, and was always the first to lend a hand to those less fortunate,” she said. “His passing earlier this year left a profound void in our Palos Lions Club community, but his spirit of giving lives on through his grandchildren,” she said.
Granddaughter Mia Narciso said her grandfather “taught us the importance of giving back and making a difference in the lives of others.”
“It’s not just about continuing his work; it’s about carrying forward the values he instilled in us,” she said. “We want to ensure that his legacy of kindness remains a vibrant part of our community.”
The trio of founders also said they hope to inspire others to embrace the compassion and community service that defined Tom Post’s life.
Tom grew up in Chicago’s Beverly neighborhood and attended St. Barnabas grammar school before attending Mt. Carmel High School, where he was a three-sport athlete for the Caravan.
“His stories of being the starting quarterback in the Illinois State Catholic League Championship had us oohing and ahhing every time,” Gina said. “Dad was a true champion on and off the field. He was drafted into the Army in 1968 and bravely served two tours in Vietnam where he achieved the rank of Sergeant.”
Gina said the most beautiful quality her dad possessed was the “unconditional love he had for my mom, Kathleen, for over 52 years, and his unwavering devotion to his four kids and six beautiful grandchildren. His kindness might just have been his biggest strength.”
Jim Hook is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.
