Thomas “Tom” Uko passed away peacefully at Villa St. Francis on November 11, 2025, with his family at his side, at the age of 81. He was born on June 18, 1944, in Chicago, where he grew up and attended Catholic schools, shaping the strong values and faith that guided his life. Although he moved away, Tom always loved returning to Chicago to visit family. He spent most of his adult life in Overland Park and Olathe, Kansas, where he built a life full of family, friendships, laughter, and adventure.
Tom married the love of his life, Elizabeth Ann Lopez, on May 29, 1966, and together they shared 54 wonderful years. They were true partners in everything—raising three sons, traveling the world, and creating countless memories. From road trips across the U.S. to river cruises in Europe, Tom and Betty embraced life with joy. One of their favorite traditions was “Villaritas” on Friday nights in the summer, sipping margaritas and laughing with neighbors and friends.
Tom was preceded in death by his beloved wife Elizabeth, his parents Stephen and Margaret, sisters Marge and Elizabeth, and brother Steve. He is survived by his sons Stephen, George, and Dave (Tiffany); his grandchildren Thomas (Jenna), Michael, Andrew, and Ian Clark; his brother-in-law Jesse Lopez; nieces and nephews; and many extended family members and friends who will forever cherish his memory.
A proud graduate of St. Edward’s University (Class of 1966) in Austin, Texas, Tom earned his accounting degree and began a distinguished career in public service. Starting as an intern at the Atomic Energy Commission in Albuquerque, New Mexico, he rose through the ranks to become a Supervisory Accountant and later held leadership roles at the Kansas City Area Office. His expertise took him to Washington, D.C., for special assignments, and he retired from the National Nuclear Security Administration in 1999 after more than three decades of service.
Outside of work, Tom lived life with heart. He volunteered with Catholic Charities, comforting hospice patients, and shared his creative spirit through photography—a passion sparked by a wedding-day mishap when the photographer failed to show and a cousin stepped in to save the day. From that moment on, Tom believed in taking “more pictures, never less.” His camera became a constant companion, whether he was capturing the beauty of events at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art or freezing moments of family joy. His grandkids affectionately called him “Grandpa Flash,” a nickname that perfectly reflected his love for preserving memories. For Tom, photography wasn’t just about pictures; it was about honoring life’s fleeting moments and the people who made them special.
Tom was deeply devoted to his family. He attended as many of his sons’ and grandsons’ events as possible and even coached several of his sons’ teams. Whether cheering from the sidelines or snapping photos of the action, Tom was always there—supportive, proud, and full of encouragement.
He will be remembered for his integrity, humor, generosity, and humility, but most of all for the way he made life fun—whether traveling, hosting gatherings, or celebrating family milestones. Tom also had a rare gift: he made you feel important whenever you were talking to him, listening with genuine interest and kindness.
His legacy is one of love, laughter, and living fully.
Celebration of Life
Visitation: Friday, December 19, 2025, 4:00–6:00 PM at Porter Funeral Home, 8535 Monrovia St, Lenexa, KS.
Funeral Mass: Saturday, December 20, 2025, 10:00 AM at Holy Spirit Catholic Church.
Memorial Contributions
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Catholic Charities or the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, honoring Tom’s commitment to service and love of the arts.