Kulpmont – Thomas F. Balanda, 86, passed away on January 20, 2024, after a lengthy illness.

Born in Shamokin on November 12, 1937, 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. Tom married Frances (Nagar) of Kulpmont on August 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, Tammy, and Annette; and nephew, Chad.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, February 1, 2024, at 11 a.m. with Father Andrew Stahmer officiating in the Church of the Holy Angels, Kulpmont. Burial will follow in Mount Carmel Cemetery, Mt. Carmel Twp. Visitation will be held on Thursday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the Church. 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.