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THOMAS GOLABEK Obituary
THOMAS ROBERT passed away May 30, 2010, age 46 in Phila., PA. after a brief but courageous battle against melanoma cancer. Tom most recently worked as a credit officer with Sovereign Bank in Newtown, PA. Previously Tom was a banking executive with HSBC in New York City and Phila. Tom is survived by his parents, Michael and Jean Golabek of East Rutherford, N.J.; his partner and best friend, Chris Ledford of Lambertville, N.J.; his brother Christopher, sister-in-law Suzanne, goddaughter Alexandra and niece Madison of Ridgewood, N.J.; and his brother Michael, sister-in-law Christine, nephew Noah of Chester, N.J. Tom will be missed by many wonderful friends, colleagues and family in Phila., New Jersey and New York City. Funeral from the KIMAK FUNERAL HOME, 425 Broad St., Carlstadt, N.J. on Thursday, June 3, 2010 at 9:00 A.M. and from St. Joseph's R.C. Church, East Rutherford at 9:30 A.M. Int. Holy Cross Cem., North Arlington. Visitation Wednesday 2 to 4, 7 to 9 P.M. A Memorial luncheon will be held at a future date in Phila. If inclined to make a donation in Tom's memory, please consider the Melanoma Research Foundation(www.melanoma.org) 170 Township Line Rd., Bldg. B, Hillsborough, N.J. 08844 or the William Way Community Ctr., 1315 Spruce St. Phila. PA. 19107.
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Memories and Condolences
for THOMAS GOLABEK
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Louis Nelson
August 27, 2019
I will always miss Tom; I learned a lot from him. The one time he asked me if I know what I had written in a write-up which I got from the internet was true. He said, NEVER put anything in a write-up unless you know it's a fact. And, boy was Tom great with numbers, he was exceptionally great. I'm so thankful for having the opportunity to work with him at HSBC.
September 28, 2013
thanks tom!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
September 28, 2013
thanks tom
September 6, 2011
Tommy - Miss you each and every day. Love, Mikey
Angela Di Giulio
June 30, 2010
Rest in peace Tom.
Cathy Gormeley
June 29, 2010
We just heard this very sad news - Tom was a friend and collegue at the old United Jersey Bank Intl Dept. we were family - Tom the memories will live in our hearts and souls - sleep with the angels friend - you are missed
June 27, 2010
god bless you thomas rest in peace.we miss and love you.mom and dad.
June 24, 2010
For you Tom, you'll always be remembered.
June 24, 2010
For you Tom, you'll always be remembered.
Mark Mitchell
June 9, 2010
I just recently heard of Tom's passing. I am so sorry for your loss. Tom sent me the nicest messages all the time when I was looking for a job, and I would send him the same. When I saw Tom he always would just give a big bear hug. Again my prayers are with you all for your loss.
Theresa Niece
June 8, 2010
Oh my god, I am so so sorry to hear this news. Tommy was such a good friend when I was younger. I am so sorry for your loss.
June 7, 2010
My deepest sympathies to Tom's family and his Partner, Chris. I learned of Tom's passing today from Nina Fairchild, a former co-worker of Tom's at HSBC, and am deeply saddened. Tom and I met when he came to Philadelphia and HSBC and he was reaching out to the business community, and I had clients in need of his banking services. There was something so special about him, that from the first moment I met him, I knew I liked him. From all the wonderful words in this guest book, Tom surely has added beauty to so many people's lives in his short time with us. I hope the memories help ease the pain.
Cathy Nemeth, Philadelphia
Lori Smith
June 6, 2010
I am so sorry to hear about Tom. What a voice. Tom was the Teen Angel to my Frenchy at WPC, riding down on the giant cherry picker. God Bless you Tom. Now you're really an angel...but I think you always were.
Evan Kilianski
June 5, 2010
I mutual friend has just advised me of this sad event. I am so saddened to hear of Tom's passing. I wish I could thank him for all his encouragement and support as a friend. I will miss him and always think of him and cherish his friendship.
Robert Pauwels
June 4, 2010
I knew of Tom Golabek growing up in the same hometown, but didnt really get to know him until I graduated college in 1986. The person I met was very funny, quick-witted, sarcastic, and had a great laugh. His friends would often be caught in the crossbows of his humor, but more often than not, Tom would be the victim of his own humor. It was always about self-improvement. From the old ghosts of the Cornerstone Inn, the HVI, Touche's, Nardi's and a host of other places that his Life's path crossed, we salute you Tom Golabek!
June 3, 2010
"Tommy. There were so many good times we shared. I'll miss you but just thinking of you brings a smile to my face. I hope the memories you've left behind eases the pain for your family and friends. You will always be with me in my heart. God Bless you my friend". Laurie Harder Moore (Carlstadt, NJ)
Kerri Parrott-Freda
June 3, 2010
Tom and I met while cast in "The Pirates of Penzance" at WPC. I fell in love with that voice. Soon after, we began dating. I remember his laugh and how protective he was. We reconnected on Facebook last year and I told him I was directing my middle school's version of "Pirates". No one could sing Samuel's part like Tom.
God Bless!
Bob Pauwels
June 3, 2010
Growing up in the same hometown, I knew of Tom Golabek but didnt really know him until I graduated college in 1986. His laughter, sarcasm, and quick wit which could be directed towards his friends, but equally just as often towards himself always kept us laughing. It was always about self-improvement for his friends' lives and for his own life. From the old ghosts of the Cornerstone Inn, the HVI, Touche, Nardi's, and a host of other people and places that his life's path crossed, "We salute you Tom Golabek!"
John Grillone
June 3, 2010
Just found out today. Tom was a wonderful and caring man. He will be remembered always.
John Grillone
June 3, 2010
Just found out today. So sorry for your loss. Tom was a wonderful man. God Bless him forever!
Dwayne Scarborough
June 3, 2010
Thomas , thank you for entering my life after 30 years. It was great to reconnect. Wish we have made those plans to get together and catch up. The phone calls worked I thank you for being a part of my life. Sleep with the angels!
Maria DiVittorio
June 2, 2010
My deepest Sympathy to his family and all his friends who loved him
Maria DiVittorio
Angie Herrera-Sanchez
June 2, 2010
Tom was one of my best friend throughout our college years. Tom and I attended William Paterson together and performed in numerous plays. I remember him in one of his best performances in The Pirates of Penzance - I will always cherish our school memories and our friendship. Tom always knew how to sheer me up, he was one in a million, it was a pleasure having him as my friend. My thoughts and prayers and my deepest condolences to the Golabek family in this time of sorrow.
Donna Hennessy
June 2, 2010
I recently re-connected with Tom on facebook after almost 30 years. We went to Kindergarten together and all through HS. He was always a great guy and always brought a smile to my face. He will be missed.
Maureen Castagno
June 2, 2010
I had the pleasure of working with Tom at United Jersey Bank. He would always come into my office and make me laugh. He was a great guy and surely be missed.
Marianne Atherton
June 2, 2010
My heart goes out to all of Tom's family and friends. I am unable to attend his services, but please know my prayers are with you all. Tom brought a lot of sunshine to many, many people. God Bless.
Rasmussen Marie
June 2, 2010
I have known Tom for many years as a colleague at HSBC. Tom and I were both "thick Headed" but we loved each other in our own way. He would come into my office and we would talk about things that bothered us about our health.
I can not believe that Tom is gone, not too long ago he sent me an e-mail about his condition and he was very upset and concerned, as it turns out, justifiable so. Tom is in my prayers and I will miss him deeply. My condolences to the family.
June 2, 2010
It is so that a great guy have left us so soon. God needed another angel. Love and miss you Tom. Rosemarie Codling (Aka Mildred), NY & GA
Rosemarie (Mildred) Codling
June 2, 2010
It is so that a great guy have left us so soon. God needed another angel. Love and miss you Tom. Rosemarie Codling (Aka Mildred), NY & GA
Cindy Murphy
June 2, 2010
I met Tom only a few months ago. He and I were both new to Sovereign Bank and I was fortunate enough to have Tom as my Credit Officer. Smart, hardworking, intelligent, straightforward, tell-it-like-it-is guy. The man knew his stuff and I was happy to be the recipient of that knowledge as he would share his thoughts and experience. Truly a talent taken from us too early but I am blessed that he touched my life for even the shortest of time.
Chris Smith
June 2, 2010
When I first met Tom for lunch in Philly I had hopes that our companies would do business together. Instead, I got so much more - a trusted and engaging friend. He was just overcoming chronic fatigue syndrome and was seeking answers to personal and professional questions that impacted his life. We'd have lunch together and talk, and hit happy hour after work sometimes. I admired how he handled everything with such confidence, drive and determination. Gifts he clearly received from his family. In the short period of time that I knew him, he transformed his life, fell in love and boldly embarked on a path less taken. And there I think he found a happiness that touched all parts of his soul. So I'm comforted by the knowledge that his soul was content when he left us, however unfair his early passing feels. With a person like Tom you're always left to wonder what might have been. My hope is that his family and his partner, Chris, will find comfort in the wonderful memories Tom surely has left for each of them.
Denise Wuss
June 2, 2010
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. May the love of friends and family help you through this difficult time. Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Donald Tausendfreund Jr.
June 1, 2010
I grew up with Tom. Little League, Faust School, and Becton. He was always there and always a good friend. I'll never forget his impersonations at lunch, hysterical. My prayers go out to him and his family.
Julie S
June 1, 2010
I can’t think of anyone with as much energy, determination, and integrity as Tom. Even after the news, I still feel like he is here—his energy had such a presence. What I loved most about him was that when you didn’t have the energy to fight back whatever made you feel down or uncertain, he did…he would pick you up, brush you off, and in his Tom-way, you knew he’d always be there. The words “I give up” were not in his vocabulary, and it wasn’t allowed in yours either. And being loved by Tom was an honor—he surrounded himself with upstanding people full of warmth and kindness. His family and friends were legends in his stories that he would tell others about—earning a place in Tom’s heart was paradise.
I am deeply saddened and at the same time, inundated with gratitude to his parents, siblings, family, friends, and Chris Ledford for filling his life with as much love, laughter and kindness as he’s shown me. He was like an older brother and I adored him so very much. He’s made such an impact on my life, and I’ll never forget him. Tom Golabek will always have a place in my heart.
Mariela Freay
June 1, 2010
My thoughts and prayers to Tom's family and dear friends. I know Tom from when we worked at UJB-Summit Bank, now Bank of America. I will always remember his sense of humor, his laughter, his love of live. You always knew what was on his mind because he'd let you know. I just saw him in December, after not seeing or hearing from each other in 9 years. We recently became Facebook friends. I will miss you Tom. Sorry we didn't chat more. God bless you and your loved ones. You will truely be missed!
Sid Grant
June 1, 2010
I was shocked and saddened to hear of Tom's passing, and wish all his family and friends heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. I applaud Tom not only for his many talents, but for his courageous struggle. His memory will burn bright in the hearts and minds of all who knew him.
June 1, 2010
So sorry to hear of Tom's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Ginger Tausendfreund. Las Vegas
Debbie Wiener
June 1, 2010
I am very sorry to hear of Tom's passing. I had the wonderful pleasure of meeting him several times and always enjoyed our visit. I am so very blessed to call his brother Michael and sister-in-law my dear friends. I my love, prayers and hugs go out to your entire family. God Bless.
Kristine Mancusi
June 1, 2010
I had the privelege of growing up with Tommy since I was about 7 years old and considered him like a brother. I can remember hearing him singing and playing the piano from across the street, and being maid of honor and him best man at my brother's wedding.
He always said what was on his mind, giving me advice and telling me like it is, followed by dose of his very distinct belts of laughter.
God Bless you Tommy and your family.
You will always have a special place in my heart.
Nina Fairchild
June 1, 2010
I knew Tom as a friend and a co-worker. He actually hired me back in 2005 and for that I am truly grateful. Tom was one of the most sincere, hardworking and thoughtful people I have ever known. He would roll up his sleeves and work with you until the job was done. I could always count on Tom to give me good advice and usually from a perspective that I had not thought about. I will miss his friendship deeply. Tom-God must have big plans for you to have taken you from us so soon. I will always remember you and the good times we shared at HSBC and in and about Philadelphia.
Johnny Spencer
June 1, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Greg Hearing
June 1, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Heather Fitzpatrick
June 1, 2010
Dear Golabek family. I am so sad and sorry for the loss of your beloved son, brother and uncle. Tom was so full of positive energy and had a great sense of humor. The world was a better place with him in it.
Doug Bitz
June 1, 2010
In the short few years I knew Tom, he impacted my life in many positive ways through his unwavering friendship, caring, advice, and sense of humor. I was fortunate to be one of his first friends in the Philadelphia area, and we never let more than a few weeks pass without a text, e-mail, or phone call. One of my "challenges" was to make Tom laugh (he had a great laugh) which, fortunately, I seemed to be able to do with ease. Tom was truly a one-of-a-kind guy, and his spirit will live on in my memory, just as his sound advice will continue to guide me in the years ahead. He was a unique presence in my life, and I will miss him so very much. Interestingly, I'm currently on vacation in a rental condo where Tom came to visit me last fall. He was my last guest last season, and it's as if I can feel his spiritual presence there. Good night, Tom............
David Knappe
June 1, 2010
Tom, Thank you for being a truly wonderful friend and college roommate. You always, always thought of others before yourself. Your kindness and your reach went far in this world. I'll treasure the memories of all the good times we all shared at William Paterson. You were taken from us way too early, but your talent, your humor and your beautiful, God-given singing voice will live on in our lives. Love to you always dear friend. To your family, my heart-felt sympathy for your loss.
Trisha Knuth
June 1, 2010
Tom....I didn't know you personally, but if half of what your big brother Mike said about you is true, I know you were wonderful and very funny. My daughter Brianne is with the Angels too... I asked her to show you around. God Bless !
Trisha Knuth - VZW Basking Ridge
Scott Carpenter
June 1, 2010
All of his theatre pals from William Paterson will miss him. He had such talent and we all will keep many happy memories of Tom. Our thoughts and prayers to his patrner and family and friends.
Tom Neale
June 1, 2010
I had the privilege of working with Tom for three years at HSBC. He was a good friend, and very hard working co-worker. I am so sorry that I did not find out about his cancer until it was too late to visit Philadelphia from my Baltimore home.
God Bless Tom, and his family and friends will be in my prayers.
Tom Neale
Baltimore, MD
Sharon Lynas
June 1, 2010
Dear Golabek family, I am so very sorry for your loss. It was nice to reconnect with Tom on Facebook after all these years. I'll never forget the fun we had doing Bye Bye Birdie in High School..He was my leading man :) My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Love, Sharon Lynas
Glenn Speake
June 1, 2010
Tom, it's not fair. 46 years is not long enough to have a person with your spirit with us. You will be missed.
Andrew Ross
June 1, 2010
I was am so sorry to hear about the loss of Tom, and this was way too early. I was a colleague of Tom's at HSBC and remember him as a very disciplined, intelligent, rationale hard working person; and, very interested in being available to his family and friends. Tom will be missed by many.
-Andrew Ross
June 1, 2010
Dear Uncle Mike and Auntie Jean,
My heart breaks for you and the whole family. My prayers and thoughts are with you. I will always think of Tommy as a good kid ... someone I could go for huge amounts of time without seeing, but those few times we saw each other in our adult years, it was like no time had passed. He will be missed so very much.
Theresa Llewellyn
June 1, 2010
TOM I will miss you and all the laughter we did, i'll never forget our joke about the Skittles. God took you to early in life, but nice to know i have a great Angel beside me. Sadly missed my friend. love you, Theresa Llewellyn
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