Thomas M. "Tommy" Siemonsma

Thomas "Tommy" M. Siemonsma, a devoted family man, proud firefighter, and steadfast community servant, died peacefully on November 8, 2025 in the care of his loving family at his longtime home in Pompton Plains. He was 78.

Born in Passaic, Tom was the beloved son of the late Michael and Catherine Siemonsma and the cherished brother of Janice and Donald. He grew up in Wayne, where he was raised in the proud tradition of generations of firemen-a legacy that would shape much of his life.

Tommy met the love of his life, Leonora (Lonnie) Garris, at a mutual friend's wedding. The pair were inseparable from the start, and in April of 1972, they were married, building a partnership of more than five decades rooted in devotion, hard work, and laughter. After a few happy years in Paterson, they settled in Pompton Plains in 1974, where they raised their two daughters, Jessica and Laura.

The day Tom received the keys to his new home, he also signed up to serve with Pequannock Fire Company #1. He dedicated 25 years of service to the department, including time as Chief, forming lifelong bonds with his fellow firefighters and serving the community he loved. Known for his quiet strength, unwavering reliability, and big heart, Tommy was a steady presence in the brotherhood of the firehouse.

To support his family, Tommy worked as a skilled glazier with the Glaziers Union Local 235, where he was respected for his strong work ethic and craftsmanship.

Outside of work and volunteer service, Tom loved nothing more than time spent outdoors, whether fishing, hunting, or golfing. A homebody at heart, he treasured quiet days close to home, though he enjoyed meaningful travels with his family to Hawaii and Mexico.

Above all, Tommy's life was rooted in family and community. He lived with purpose, loved with his whole heart, and gave of himself without hesitation. His spirit endures in the many lives he touched-especially in his beloved daughters, his greatest pride and joy. When they became mothers, Tommy embraced his role as "Pop" with delight, doting on his grandchildren every chance he got. Together they made cherished memories riding around town, stopping by the firehouse, or visiting Jones' Hardware, where the kids loved feeding the chickens when the Jones family was away. Tommy was an extraordinary father-but as "Pop," he shined even brighter.

A testament to a life well-lived, Tommy will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered. He is survived by his wife, Leonora, his daughters, Jessica Joy Longo and her husband Mario, and Laura Lynn Siemonsma-Bertelli and her husband Anthony; his sister, Janice Troiano; and loving "Pop" to his grandchildren, Julia, Jack, Mason, John and Alex; and beloved uncle to Jennifer, Christopher and Donald.

Visiting hours will be held Sunday, November 16, 2025 from 1-5 pm at Scanlan's. A graveside service will be held 11:15 am Monday, November 17, 2025 at the First Reformed Cemetery in Pompton Plains.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Tommy's memory to the Pequannock Township Food Pantry at the First Reformed Church, 529 Newark Pompton Tpke., Pompton Plains, NJ 07444 or the Community Food Bank of NJ, PO Box 1184, Pleasantville, NJ 08232-6184 would be greatly appreciated by his family.