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Thomas John "TJ" Duignan
Thomas John "TJ" Duignan
Obituary
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Thomas Duignan Obituary
Thomas John "TJ"
Duignan(36,) was called to Heaven on Tuesday, May 16, 2006 in Brentwood, CA. TJ battled cancer for the last year and is now at peace. TJ is survived by the love of his life, Margie, and his two beautiful children, Skylar (7) and Owen (2). He is also survived by his parents Thomas Duignan and Betty and Gerald Berry who will miss him dearly. His loving sisters Michelle, Alisa and Stephanie will cherish their memories with him forever. TJ also leaves behind his beloved parents-in-law John and Lillian Shebelut and sister in-law Nicole. Other survivors include Grandmother Connie Hilsendager; brothers-in law, Andrew Devlin and Maurice O'Grady, nieces; Elizabeth, Erin, Lindsey and nephew Jake. Thanks ! go out for the huge outpouring of love and kindness from the hundreds of special friends and family who have supported them through this ordeal and who continue to be there for the family, with a special mention to close friends, Scott and Susie Pagter. TJ was born in Daly City on May 3, 1970. He graduated from South San Francisco High School and attended San Jose State University. TJ began his career at Chili's fifteen years ago and it's been said there has never been someone so passionate about his job or who loved to go to work each day with a big smile on his face. He touched the lives of many during his time there and the support Chili's and the Chili's family has shown him and his family during this difficult time will be forever appreciated. TJ loved kids and all kids loved him. He passed on his love of sports to his children by coaching both soccer and T-Ball and was an avid fan of the 49ers, Giants! and Warriors. TJ; Thank you for the time we shared.Donations can be made to St. Jude Hospital for children. 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105 Viewing Sunday, 2-5, May 21st at Brentwood Funeral Home, 839 First Street, Brentwood, CA. Visitation Monday May 22nd 10am -11am at, Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 500 Fairview Ave., Brentwood, CA followed by Eulogy and Mass.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Jack Growney
June 9, 2006
Tom/Betty/Margie & family
I just learned of TJs passing. I was truly stunned. My deepest sympathy to family. God rest his soul.
Judith Farrell Boston
May 31, 2006
I only met TJ a couple of times. But I am a life-long friend of his dear mother, Betty. Through her I have come to know what a wonderful son, father and husband he was. Margie, Skylar and Owen will remain in my prayers. I can't know Betty's pain, but I share it. As tragic as this was, it was also a beautiful story of faith and family love.
Rebecca "Becky" Raulerson-Morgan
May 29, 2006
TJ was my manager way back in the day at Concord Chili's. He was such a great guy and was ALWAYS so positive and upbeat. I was deeply upset-shocked when I heard that he had passed away. My deepest sympathies to his family.
Eric Rotshtein
May 28, 2006
Our deepest sympathies and sadness.
From the Rotshtein Family
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Erica Boyd
May 25, 2006
T.J. Duignan gave me my very first job and taught me a lot about the work world and getting along with others. I am happy to say that my working with him has helped me find better jobs and I am more optimistic about my professional future.
I am so sorry to hear about his passing and my heart goes out to Margie, Skylar, Owen, and the rest of T.J.'s family.
Shea Felix
May 25, 2006
Margie and Family,
Very sorry to hear about your loss. TJ was such a great roommate in college. More memories than I can count. Great friend and wonderful person.
Lindsay Close
May 24, 2006
TJ was not only a great person but a manager I used to look forward to working with. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. My heart goes out to your family for your loss. Stay strong!
Joe Celentano
May 24, 2006
Margie, Skyler, and Owen-
TJ was a special person and an inspiration to many. Positive, big-hearted and funnier than most. He had an uncanny ability to make everyone around him feel important and special. He made my time at Chili's very rewarding and I know that all of the other older Chili-Head's feel the same way. We had one hell of a store and a ton of awesome memories! As a friend, he always made me laugh with his quick wit and one-liners. He will be greatly missed by all. Take great care and may God be with you....
Love Always-
Joe, Heidi, Serfina & Elizabeth Celentano
NICOLE CAMITZ
May 23, 2006
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Mike Celentano
May 23, 2006
Margie, Skyler, and Owen.
My heart goes out to all of you. I am blessed that I got to work with TJ for a few years at Concord Chili's, he made coming to work fun. Becoming friends outside of work was filled with many laughs, softball, golfing & bowling, he made everything a great time. I will miss my friend.
kari maltzman
May 22, 2006
I am so sorry for your loss...Teej was truly loved by so many.
You are all in our thoughts our hearts and our prayers!
Gary and Kari
Nicole Donegan
May 22, 2006
Margie, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Ever since Jamie told me of TJ's passing, I have not been able to get you and your family out of my mind. May you find peace, courage, strength and love from your family and friends during this difficult time. Nicole Donegan (Schooley)
Michael Juan
May 22, 2006
Tom it was a pleasure visiting you yesterday as well as being able to meet your lovely family and friends. Will never forget the the games we played in Mater Dolorosa, football, basketball, dodgeball and most of all BREAK DANCING. Take care " GYRO"
Tim & Marian Nugent
May 22, 2006
We met TJ when he was a manager at
the Concord Chilis. He was so good
with the customers-always making us feel special. We missed him when he went to Pleasanton so were
happy to have him back in the area
at the Antioch store. He still remembered us and always had time to say hi and ask how we were doing
We wish to express our deepest sympathies to his family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
We hope that you will get some comfort knowing how many people thought so much of TJ
Lyssa Hoeppner (Forsman)
May 22, 2006
TJ was a wonderful manager. I have know TJ since his first day at Pleasanton Chili's over five years ago. He always said that "you aren't smiling big enough if the guest isn't smiling back." TJ lived by this in his life and I do to. Thank you for touching my life in som many ways! You will be missed!
Matt O'Donnell
May 21, 2006
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Duignan family. M.D. Class of 1984.
Monique Wind-Austin
May 21, 2006
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Joe Vallero
May 21, 2006
TJ you are were an amazing person, fun, loyal, and honest. My memories of you are ones that make me laugh you were trully one of a kind. I will miss you dearly. Margie, Skylar and Owen you have our deepest and most heart felt sympathies.
We love you
Joe, Loretta and Joey
Camarra family
May 21, 2006
Dear Margie, Skylar, Owen and Duignan Family, our thoughts and prayers are with you. We are so sorry for your loss...lot's of love
Andrea Vallerga
May 21, 2006
Margie, On behalf of the entire Centex team, we offer you our deepest sympathy.
Kathy Rantz (Keeler)
May 21, 2006
I was fortunate to meet TJ about eight years ago when I was going through my Chili's management training in Walnut Creek and he worked in Concord. We talked on the phone occassionally and he never failed to make me laugh every time. I left Chili's in 2000, but was so happy when he was transfered to Pleasanton. My husband I saw him there often. He always had a big smile for everyone and a great story to tell about Margie, Skylar and/or Owen. His love for his family was very apparent. I want to express my deepest condolences to his entire family. Words aren't enough at this time, however, please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Frank & Sue Machado
May 21, 2006
Margie, Skylar & Owen,
Praying that the Lord will comfort you with His peace...surround you in His love...and encourage you with His presence.
Jesus said,"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you."—John 14:27.
Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with you all.
Sincerely,
Lon Ledwith
May 21, 2006
My deepest sympathies and sadness. TJ was a great friend, coworker and leader. He will be missed by all.
Kathy & Eloisa Burke
May 21, 2006
Margie, Skylar and Owen:
Eloisa and I are very sorry to hear about TJ. We both have great memories of what a great father he was. Ellie and I remember the time we came to your house and he came home after work and rather than just resting he played with the kids, including Ellie, she loved it! We are praying that your family finds healing in this difficult time, we know you will. All of our love goes to you,
Theresa Hunsinger
May 21, 2006
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Shelley Badstubner
May 20, 2006
Margie, I hope you feel the love you're getting from the people in this guest book and those all around you. May this love and support continue forever and help you through this unbelievable time. What a wonderful celebration of TJ today in the park. He would have loved it. You are loved and TJ is loved and will be missed by all who ever knew him! We are praying for all of you.
Jeff and Shelley Badstubner
tina reszler
May 20, 2006
I am sorry for your loss.
MD Class of '84
Tina Wright-Freelen
May 20, 2006
Margie, Our deepest sympathy to you and the children. TJ was one of a kind. We were so lucky to have him as part of our family, our cousin. He touched our lives in such a special way, he will be
missed terribly. We love you, Rachel, Tina, and George
Lisa Elliott
May 20, 2006
Margie, I'm so sorry for your loss. Our condolences are with you and your family. TJ was a great guy who will be extremely missed.
Denise Duran
May 20, 2006
Margie, I am touched by the courage and spirit that you and TJ shared together through this chapter in your lives. My prayers are with you and your children.
Pamela Steil (Dal Bozzo)
May 20, 2006
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Duignan family.
MD Class of 84'
Bridget & Evan Homer
May 20, 2006
Our deepest sympathies to Margie, Skylar, Owen and the rest of your family and friends! You are in our thoughts and prayers!
May 20, 2006
Much love to your family Margie!Love, Lance, Amie, & Ashley Martin
Chris Kunz
May 20, 2006
"TJ" was a man that i had the utmost respect for, he was a great husband and a great dad. my heartfelt condolences go out to Margie and family and the entire Duignan family. He will be deeply missed by all. Brother, until we meet again much LOVE AND RESPECT
Nicole Mills
May 20, 2006
Words alone cannot express how sad I am for your loss; my thoughts and prayers are with TJ's family during this difficult time.
With Deepest Sympathy,
Jeff, Deanna,Ashley&Megan Clark
May 20, 2006
TJ we will truly miss you, you were a great coach, great friend and you showed Ashley how fun it is to play T-Ball. The memories of the Rockies will be with us forever. Thanks for giving Jeff a chance and hiring him at Chili's. He had a great 2 years with you. Thanks for the memories. Rest in Peace, We love you "Coach".
Monique & Natali
May 20, 2006
Our thoughts and prays go out to your family for the loss of a wonderful man. He was a great manager and always fun to work with. The restaurant will not be the same with out him. Goodbye TJ we will miss you!
Laura BeBeau
May 20, 2006
Margie,
I only had the chance to meet TJ a handful of times and he ALWAYS had a friendly smile on his face! You two shared an amazing love and friendship. I'm so sorry for your loss :(
Your friend,
Laura
Patty Dyer
May 20, 2006
Margie, Skyler, and Owen, I am so sorry for your loss, and you 3 will be in my thought and prayer. Lots of love
Patty Dyer
Jill Orozco
May 19, 2006
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Duignan family. We'll miss you Tom.
MD Class of 84'
Ron Borromeo
May 19, 2006
We'll truly miss you Tom. Thanks for being a great friend in MD, South City and at SJ state. Our thoughts and prayers to you and your family.
Ric Edgar
May 19, 2006
I only knew T.J for just over two years. We were what you might call "only professional friends." Nonetheless, we spoke often. T.J. was about to be promoted, but, today, that seems so small, so trivial. For those of us who only knew T.J. professionally, it is hard to imagine ever "getting over" T.J. even though we only had a brief brush with him in the work arena. I imagine that for you who knew him best -- his family and his non-professional friends, the hurt will never heal. There are people in the world who just can't be replaced. There are hurts that cannot be healed. I am so sorry for your loss. In my limited way, I am sorry for my loss. But above all else, I cannot begin to fathom your loss. I am so sorry.
Human Resource Manger, Chili's Grill and Bar
Ric Edgar
May 19, 2006
I only knew T.J for just over two years. We were what you might call "only professional friends." Nonetheless, we spoke often. T.J. was about to be promoted, but, today, that seems so small, so trivial. For those of us who only knew T.J. professionally, it is hard to imagine ever "getting over" T.J. even though we only had a brief brush with him in the work arena. I imagine that for you who knew him best -- his family and his non-professional friends, the hurt will never heal. There are people in the world who just can't be replaced. There are hurts that cannot be healed. I am so sorry for your loss. In my limited way, I am sorry for my loss. But above all else, I cannot begin to fathom your loss. I am so sorry.
Lynn Shoop
May 19, 2006
I am so sorry that we lost TJ, but God has gained a killer side-kick!!
All my love,
Lynn Shoop
Jim and Jennifer Bilafer
May 19, 2006
We were so sad to hear of TJ's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
the Nsite Team
May 19, 2006
Our prayers and thoughts are with you all during this difficult time.
With Deepest Sympathy.
Cynthia (cindy) (Gonzalez) Morton
May 19, 2006
It's been more than twenty years but his smile still resides in my mind. He was always nice to me in grade school and for that I won't forget him. Your family is my thoughts and prayers Tom. God Bless.
Kimberly Wallace
May 19, 2006
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Gina Dynes
May 19, 2006
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless!
Jason Shadd
May 19, 2006
My thoughts go out to my friend from back when. I am going to miss you Buddy! We are going to celebrate how you lived. I'm sure we all have many things to share with each other. My families prayers go out to your family.
Mike Paulsen
May 19, 2006
"TJ" was a great kid who grew up to be a great husband & father. I'll never forget him getting his head stuck through the rails of my deck. When I unstuck him and giggled at him, he didn't think it was one bit funny. I think he was about four. My heart felt condolences to all. God bless him.
Terri Muscat
May 19, 2006
Our hearts and prayers are with you and your family, Margie.
With love,
Vince & Terri
David McEntee
May 19, 2006
My thought and prayers are with Tom's family.
Good-bye, Tom.
David McEntee
MD, class of '84
The Staff of Brentwood Eye Care
May 19, 2006
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Courtney Marzocco
May 19, 2006
Dear Margie, I'm thinking of you all during this difficult time. We know TJ is running Heaven's Kitchen and that he would want you and his family to find peace and joy in life. God Bless.
Gene Hannan
May 19, 2006
Tom and Betty,
I am so sorry to read about the death of your son TJ. My condolences to the family.
Brentwood Funeral Home
May 18, 2006
Our thoughts are with the family and friends at this time.
Kathy Hughes
May 18, 2006
My deepest sympathy to all of TJ's family. He was so full of life and love that his loss is so hard to bear for all. We must keep his smile and memory alive for his children. Love, Cousin Kathy
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839 First Street, Brentwood, CA 94513
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