My deepest sympathies to Cook County Democratic Party Chairman Tom Lyons’ many friends and family members. I always found him to be a gentleman.

Visitation for Tom Lyons will be from 3 p.m. until 9 p.m Tuesday at Smith Corcoran Funeral Home, 6150 Cicero , Chicago.

The funeral mass will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at St. Francis Xavier Church, 524 9th Street, Wilmette.

Mr. Lyons was 75 years-old. He is survived by his wife, Ruth, and four children Alexandra, Rachel, Frank and Thomas.

The family has requested donations to Misericordia in lieu of flowers.

* Sun-Times: Longtime leading Cook County Democrat dies

* Tribune: Cook County Democratic Party leader Thomas G. Lyons dies

* AP: Cook County Democratic Party Chair Dies - Lyons was a veteran committeeman of the 45th Ward

* Statement from Speaker Madigan:

“Today we stop to mourn the death Tom Lyons — a man to who devoted much of his life to fostering the growth of the Democratic Party in Chicago, our state and the nation.

“For more than 40 years, Tom Lyons worked as a State Senator, Constitutional Convention officer and delegate, Presidential Appointee and national party convention delegate. He worked hard, served with distinction and had his efforts recognized by prestigious groups.”

“For instance, early in his legislative career, the respected Rutgers University named him as one of the “Outstanding Young Legislators in the U.S.”

Tom was also proud of his service as a U.S. Army Ranger and as a Chicago Police Officer.

Tom will be remembered for his tireless work as a Democratic Party activist, his energetic efforts on behalf of candidates ranging from those who sought obscure local office to Bill Clinton’s successful quest for the presidency and his countless contributions to charities and community organizations.

Shirley and I and our children join Tom’s many friends and family in expressing our deepest sympathies to his family.

* Statement from Gov. Blagojevich:

“Tom Lyons was a hard-working and tireless public servant who dedicated his life to the people of Illinois and the principles of the Democratic Party. His distinguished career inspired many to follow him into public service, and he will be sorely missed.”

“My wife Patti and I join Tom’s family and many friends in mourning his loss.”