Foglia YMCA Board Member Spotlight: John Tolomei
One of our Y pillars is Fitness and Healthy Living. Our Spotlight introduces a Board member who personifies this mission. You have probably seen him in the pool or the weight room, but he is also a familiar face within the Lake Zurich community. Meet John Tolomei!
Unlike other Board members that grew up as Y Kids, John did not begin his Y story until the age of 15. While growing up in Melrose Park, he was the second oldest of 11 children. Playing in the streets or in the nearby freight yard, John reflects on a much simpler time. Besides taking care of his younger siblings, John worked in the family businesses until he was ready to venture out on his own. He signed up for a Lifeguard class at the local Y and from there began utilizing the Ys in the area. As a High School wrestler, he embraced the need for staying fit and strong. His uncle introduced him to weightlifting and he became a life-long lifting enthusiast. Today, he continues his Y fitness routine swimming, cross training and weight lifting. He leads an informal core exercise group at the Lattof Y every weekend. He is an avid cycler, runner, kayaker, and barefoot water skier. He continues to stay active and healthy but admits it does get tougher the older he gets.
John is not afraid of hard work. He has a Bachelor's and Master's Degree in Civil Engineering and a Law Degree. He spent his early career as an engineer in the Petro-Chemical and Refining Industry, before specializing in Patent Law and eventually becoming the Chief Patent Counsel for UOP. His journey led him into a green fuels start-up company and then opted to pursue private practice in Patent Law. In 1995, John joined the Board of Trustees for Lake Zurich before serving as the Mayor of Lake Zurich from 2005 to 2009. He remains very involved in community organizations and has attended Alpine Chapel since 1987. He often volunteers for non-profit construction projects, offering his engineering expertise and some hands on assistance.
His community connectivity is what led him to the Foglia Y Board of Directors in 2007. As an active member, and Board member, he recognizes the Y focus on families and social outreach. He supports any opportunity for the Y to impact those in need and to partner with other organizations to build a stronger community. John's sense of taking responsibility along with his core Christian values make him an engaged and committed Y Board volunteer.
Keeping him young at heart is his wife of 44 years, Sharon. They have two children, John and Jennette, and eight grandchildren, which they spend as much time with as they are able. When John is not working or volunteering, he and Sharon enjoy traveling internationally. He fondly recalls touring the Christmas markets in Germany and driving on the Autobahn at 100+ M.P.H. while his passengers white knuckled. He has done rewarding mission work in Haiti and is always eager for a new adventure.
John is passionate about taking care of others, collaboration and living by the Golden Rule. He has a friendly and outgoing personality and brings wisdom and enthusiasm to the Board. We are fortunate to have him help us live our cause and if you have the chance, introduce yourself and get to know John. He may recruit you to become a lifting buddy!