Thom McNamee to get his Way

Thom McNamee's presence permeates the buildings and businesses that define East Dundee's downtown area - an area he helped bring to life decades ago with restaurants, shops and bars.

Soon, the street where McNamee left his deepest impression will inherit his name.

East Dundee officials are working to dedicate North River Street from Route 72 to Jackson Street as The Thom McNamee Way.

"He had an impact on the whole street, but we wanted to highlight that section because that's where he had his Dairy Queen, bike shop and Bandito Barney's," Trustee Mike Ruffulo said. "He was someone special who had an impact on the entire village. We thought this would be appropriate."

Trustees have yet to approve the signage, which would be a first for the village. Ruffulo said there is consensus for the idea, but trustees want to outline guidelines for future honorary street signs.

McNamee, 56, of unincorporated Dundee, died in June from a brain tumor.

The colorful figure behind some of the area's most popular establishments, like Rosie O'Hare's Public House and Bandito Barney's Beach Club, was well-known for his all-seasons wardrobe consisting of a Hawaiian shirt, cargo shorts and work boots.

He also sponsored the village's annual St. Patrick's Day Parade when financial constraints threatened its future. It is apropos then, that trustees are considering a dedication ceremony close to the March holiday.

"He resurrected that parade for us, so that would be a great time to do it," Ruffulo said.

McNamee's eldest sister, Mari Beth McNamee, called the honorary street sign "perfect."

"He would be so proud," she said. "It is very fitting because he did so much for the village on that street in terms of the buildings down there."

The street sign will also serve as a dedication of sorts to Thom's twin brother, Tim, who was killed outside of his Carpentersville law office in 1987.

"He and Tim started on the corner of that street, but Thom moved the rest of River Street into the 21st century," said McNamee's sister, Eileen McNamee. "Their tireless efforts transformed that block."