Tom Gaffey was co-owner of The Wheel in South Beloit

Thomas “Tom” “The Gaff” Gordon Gaffey, 72, of South Beloit, IL, was co-owner of The Wheel in South Beloit. He was formerly employed by Taylor Freezer. He loved feeding the birds and watching the Eagles. Tom was an avid Green Bay Packer fan and was a great athlete in high school. He enjoyed fishing, bowling, and traveling. Tom and Susie enjoyed taking trips to Minnesota and Las Vegas. They also enjoyed their time spent at The Wheel. Tom loved to stir the pot. He absolutely loved his children and grandchildren.

Tom passed away on Wednesday, October 4, 2023 in his home surrounded by family.

He was born on December 2, 1950 in Beloit, WI, the son of Grant and Beverly (Balderson) Gaffey. Tom was a graduate of South Beloit High School. He married Susan Tibbetts on March 6, 1993 in Beloit.

Survivors include his wife, Susie Gaffey; sons, Trevor Jensen, Grant Gaffey, and Thomas Gaffey; daughter, Samantha Gaffey; two wonderful bonus children, James “Jimmy” (Kristin) Hosey and Brian Hosey; grandchildren, Patrick, Login, Kennedy, Skylar, Kali, Jameson, Melena, Maison, Brycen, and Jarryn; brother, Gerald (Lynn) Gaffey; niece, Michelle LeVelle; sisters-in-law, Kathy (Clare) Hammerand, Patricia Pepitone, , and Debbie (Mike) Mason; brother-in-law, Thomas (Jackie) Tibbetts; several other nieces, nephews, cousins, his special cookie baking cousin, Jan Wells, other relatives, and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents; sister and brother-in-law, Cheryl and Wayne LeVelle; and the canine love of his life, Lola.

The family would like to give a special thank you to the Beloit Regional Hospice team and everyone who has given the family love and support during this time.

Tom's Celebration of Life will begin at 1 p.m. on Saturday, October 14, 2023 at The Rusty Wheel Tavern, formerly known as “The Wheel,” 529 Blackhawk Blvd., South Beloit, IL 61080. A private graveside service for Tom will be held in Eastlawn Cemetery.