Dr. Thomas Michael Hellwig's Obituary
Dr. Thomas Michael Hellwig: A Life of Service, Family, and Enduring Friendship
Thomas Michael Hellwig, M.D., passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 24, 2025. Born October 16th, 1940, in Chicago, Illinois, he was the son of the late Clarence and Mary Hellwig. A longtime resident of San Bernardino, he is survived by his wife of 57 years, Phyllis, their four children: Anne (Sam), Eileen (Scott), Edward (Kelly), and Alex (Andrea); eight grandchildren Emma Stennick, Sophie and Jane Oldham, Adam, Evan, and Max Hellwig and Alexa and Thomas Irvani; and his sister Mary Beth and brother Mark.
Tom began his medical journey in his hometown, earning an undergraduate degree from Loyola University Chicago before graduating from its Stritch School of Medicine in 1966. He completed his internship and residency at the Cleveland Clinic, followed by a one-year fellowship at Northwestern University. His commitment to service led him to the U.S. Army in 1970, where he served in Vietnam at the 91st Evacuation Hospital in Chu Lai. It was there he forged lifelong friendships and earned the Bronze Star in 1971 for meritorious service.
Upon moving to San Bernardino in September of 1972 he joined the San Bernardino Medical Group where he practiced for the next 50 years. To his patients, he was a trusted voice in the medical community who never hesitated to answer late night phone calls. He also lent his expertise in various administrative roles at St. Bernadine Medical Center including Chief of Staff and Director of Respiratory Care.
Outside of the clinic, Tom was an avid golfer, a dedicated cyclist, and a voracious reader. He was known for his sense of humor, sartorial style and generous nature. He enjoyed driving exciting cars and the camaraderie of fishing trips to Montana and Canada. His heart never left his hometown, as he remained a devoted fan of the Chicago Cubs and, of course, da Bears.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to Aquinas High School (2772 Sterling Ave. San Bernardino, CA 92404), or the Stater Brothers Believe Walk (https://p2p.onecause.com/believewalk2025/home).
A memorial mass will be held at Our Lady of the Rosary Cathedral on Thursday, October 30th at 10:30 AM. A private burial will take place at a later date at Riverside National Cemetery.
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