Thomas Michael Brettman, 2, of Elk Grove Village suffered from De Barsy syndrome, a rare genetic disorder. Thomas, who was born in Maywood, died Saturday, Feb. 17, in his home of complications from pneumonia. “Our lives are blessed to have had him here,” said his mother, Kristie. “We wouldn’t have missed it. He has an older brother and sister who loved him very much. We’re hoping to never lose the lessons he taught us.” His mother said despite his inability to grow (he weighed only 12 pounds), he did more than many other people with a longer life and touched many peoples’ lives. Other survivors include his father, Mike; a brother, Will; a sister, Emilie; grandparents Arthur and Marion Ibbotson; and grandmother Donna Brettman. A memorial service will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday in Christus Victor Lutheran Church, 1045 S. Arlington Heights Rd., Elk Grove Village.
