Thomas "Otis" Hellmann
July 15, 1956 - January 31, 2024

Thomas "Otis" Hellmann, beloved husband, father, and esteemed figure in Major League Baseball, passed away on January 31, 2024, at the age of 67. He was born on July 15, 1956, in Cincinnati, Ohio, and had been residing in Chicago, Illinois.

Tom, as he was affectionately known, dedicated five decades of his life to the world of baseball. He began his career in 1974 with the Cincinnati Reds and remained with the team until 1982. In 1983, he joined the Chicago Cubs as the visiting clubhouse manager, a position he held until 2000. In recognition of his exceptional skills and dedication, Tom was promoted to the role of Head Equipment Manager for the Chicago Cubs home clubhouse in 2000. In 2023, he was honored for his unwavering commitment and became the emeritus clubhouse manager.

Beyond his remarkable professional achievements, Tom cherished his family as his proudest accomplishment. In 1989, he married Mary Theobald, and together they raised three children, Lena, Hanna, and Theo. Tom's love for his family was evident in everything he did.

Tom's dreams were not limited to his career; he longed to witness the Chicago Cubs break the curse and win the World Series. In 2016, his dream became a reality, and Tom celebrated this monumental achievement with immense joy and pride.

Known for his culinary skills, Tom was a master in the kitchen. His family fondly remembers waking up to the enticing aroma of pancakes and breakfast treats, and fishing all day before savoring his famous fried fish. The ball players also relished his delectable egg salad, tuna salad, and mouthwatering ice cream.

Tom's dedication to his craft, love for his family, and passion for baseball left an indelible mark on all those who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed by his wife, children, extended family, friends, and the baseball community.

A celebration of Tom's life will be held on a date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made in Tom's memory to a charity of your choice.

Rest in peace, Thomas "Otis" Hellmann. Your legacy lives on through the memories you created and the impact you had on those around you.