In loving memory of Bradford Eugene Thacker

September 5, 1955 – April 29, 2026

Brad Thacker was the type of person who made life brighter just by being in the room. Hisvibrant wit served as the foundation of his personality, and even as his journey in life drew to a close, his sense of humor endured.

Bradford E. Thacker passed away peacefully on the morning of April 29, in the home of his loving brother and sister-in-law in Belvidere, Illinois. Born September 5, 1955, to Robert J. Thacker and Dorothy J. (Bump) Thacker, Brad grew up in the small, rural town of Pontiac, Illinois.

After graduating from Pontiac High School, he attended Illinois State University where he majored in Theater, sang with the Men’s Glee Club, and worked as the manager of the Old Main Bookstore. While in college, he established loving, life-long friendships with the people who would become “The ISU Gang,” his second family.

During his younger years, Brad followed the lure of the stage and performed in many productions with the Vermillion Players in Pontiac, the Bloomington Players, Illinois State University Theater, and Central Station Dinner Theater in Bloomington.

Brad’s professional and artistic life then became deeply rooted in Chicago, the city he considered home. There, he was the manager of the Crystal Suite in Water Tower Place and then a buyer for Accent Chicago. Over time, he began working as manager of the retail division of the Chicago Cultural Center. Lois Weisberg, Commissioner of Cultural Affairs in Chicago, recognized his creative strengths and appointed him to the position of Arts Administrator for the Department of Cultural Affairs. While there, Brad produced cabaret programs for Maxim’s: The Nancy Goldberg International Center, as well as many other shows in venues throughout the city. He was also deeply involved with Chicago Cabaret Professionals, serving on its advisory board from 2007 to 2009, and in 2009, he was honored with their “Special Recognition” award. Furthermore, he brought his experience into the classroom at Columbia College Chicago, where he taught business for the arts. 

During his years of work, Brad continued to act and sing in Chicago’s performing arts and cabaret scene. While at the Cultural Center, Brad helped build Gallery 37, an arts education and apprenticeship program, into a vibrant showcase for young artists, then brought it alive with the musical events he hosted. He brought his signature charm to a wider audience as an entertainment reporter for “Your Town Chicago” on public TV, celebrating the people and neighborhoods that made the city unique. In this role, he was nominated by the Chicago/Midwest Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences for an Emmy Award in 2005/2006.

According to his friends and associates: “Brad was pure talent.” “A master entertainer.” “He had the vision and he pulled people together.” “He really did a lot of good for Chicago.” In later years, Brad brought his skills and charisma to his work at Northern Illinois University in Rockford, where he worked as Catering Supervisor/Conferences Event Manager. As he had done at ISU and in Chicago, he cultivated warm, caring friendships in Belvidere and Rockford.

Brad is survived by his brothers Gary (Heidi) Thacker of Belvidere, Illinois, and Robert (Cindy) Thacker of Palm Coast, Florida, his sister Susan (Gerald) Mehrkens of Pontiac, Illinois, his nieces and nephews Kelsey Thacker (Nick Fulton,) Kendall (Jason) Ferree, Jeremy Mehrkens, Molly (Wade) Harlan, Jason (Jennifer) McKune, Robert Thacker, and Ginny (Josh) Gischel, as well as his beloved great-nieces and nephews and many close friends who will miss him dearly. His nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews were the apples of his eye, and they could not have asked for a more loving – and fun – uncle.

Preceding Brad in death were his parents, Robert and Dorothy Thacker, his sister Lana McKune, and one niece Meghan Overton.

At Brad’s request, no service is planned. In his spirit, those who knew and loved him are encouraged to get together, share a memory, and raise a toast in his name.

Brad had a way of showing up for people—thoughtfully, consistently, generously, and with genuine care. His kindness touched many lives, and his absence will leave a hurtful gap in the lives of many. However, the memories of his spirit will remain with us always.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Unity Hospice and Palliative Care, Rochelle, Illinois, especially to Hayley and Elizabeth for their compassionate support. Deep appreciation is also extended to the many friends and relatives who visited, sat with, and shared time with Brad during his final months. Their presence meant more than words can express, and he loved you all.

Memorial donations can be made in Brad’s name to a charity of your choice.