Thomas A. Staner, 89, co-founder and co-owner of Jay’s Foods Inc., maker of potato chips and other snack food, died Wednesday in Birmingham, Ala., where he had lived since retirement. Mr. Staner was an accountant at Price Waterhouse until he met the other two men who started Jay’s in 1940. During his 42 years with Jay’s, Mr. Staner served as chief financial officer, treasurer and executive vice president. He also served as treasurer of the International Chippers Association and on the boards of several banks in Chicago. A Chicago native and DePaul University graduate, Mr. Staner lived in Niles for most of his life. He moved to Alabama to be near his son and grandson in 1979. He is survived by his wife, Lillian; a son, Thomas; and a grandson. Visitation will be held from 3 to 9 p.m. Friday in Malec & Sons Funeral Home, 6000 N. Milwaukee Ave. Mass for Mr. Staner will be said at 10 a.m. Saturday in St. Mary of the Woods Catholic Church, 7033 N. Moselle Ave.
