Thomas F. Balanda, 86, of Kulpmont, passed away Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024, after a lengthy illness.

Born Nov. 12, 1937, in Shamokin, Tom was the son of Florian and Mary Balanda. He was preceded in death by his brother, John; sister-in-law, Jaye; brother-in-law, Bob Platt; and uncle, Joseph "Moxie".

Tom attended St. Joseph's Elementary School in Shamokin and graduated from Coal Township High School in 1955. He served in the United States Navy on the USS Zellars dd-777 from 1955-1958. Tom worked as a machine operator at Holsum Butter-Krust Bakery for over 20 years.

Tom was a member of the Church of the Holy Angels in Kulpmont. He married Frances (Nagar) of Kulpmont on Aug. 8, 1964.

Family was most important to Tom. A strong faith guided Tom through life, and he possessed an inquisitive mind. Tom enjoyed reading, gardening, and working on odd jobs and various projects around the house. Following his retirement, Tom could be found trout fishing, playing the slot machines at a variety of casinos, attending local high school sporting events, and cheering for the Penn State Nittany Lions on game days. In addition to those activities, those closest to Tom will remember his unique gift for telling nostalgic stories, providing words of wisdom, offering life advice, and embracing all events with spirit and zeal.

In addition to his wife, Frances, Tom is survived by sons, Thomas Jr. and wife Michele of York and Mark and wife Lisa of Hershey; sisters, Lois Platt and Mary Yordy and brother-in-law, Jim; sister-in-law, Patricia Bingaman; brother-in-law, John "Jack" Nagar; grandchildren, Alexis, Ryan, and Marisa; nieces, Bethann, Margie, and Annette; and nephew, Chad.

Visitation will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 1, at the Church of the Holy Angels, Kulpmont, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. with Father Andrew Stahmer officiating.

Burial will follow in the Mount Carmel Cemetery, Mount Carmel Township.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor Tom may donate to the Church of the Holy Angels, 855 Scott St., Kulpmont, PA 17834.

To send condolences to the family, please visit www.cjlucasfuneralhome.com