Thomas Joseph Zawadzki

A memorial mass to celebrate his life will be held at 11:30, Thursday, June 6th at St. Ann Catholic Church in Clayton.

Tom was born in Lackawanna, New York on July 30, 1941 to the late Frank Zawadzki and the late Loretta Giermata Piontek. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepfather, Art Piontek, and his beloved older brother, Frank Zawadzki, Sr.

After high school, Tom joined the United States Air Force where he spent over 20 years serving his country and traveling around the world. Hawaii, Madrid, and England were some of his fondest memories.

It wasn’t until after he retired from the USAF that he settled down and met the love of his life, Krissy, while working at Centel in Las Vegas, NV. Soon they were married, and without hesitation, he instantly took on the role of a devoted dad to Bekah. Tom and Kris completed their family with the birth of their 2nd daughter, Katie. The Zawadzki family enjoyed many moves, family gatherings, and hours poolside in the Las Vegas heat until they moved to Clayton, NC in 1999.

Once in Clayton, Tom continued to work for the phone company until he was ready to retire, then set his sights on his true passion, real estate. With hard work and determination, he passed his real estate exam and became a realtor at the age of 64. He worked until age 80, where he was adored by his Hometowne Realty family, who always counted on him to take home the leftovers after luncheons and parties.

Tom’s greatest accomplishment and title by far was that of “Papa.” He was a devoted family man who loved God and his country. He always found the best deals, garage sales, thrift finds, and he never missed a chance to use a coupon. Tom loved life and lived with purpose. He was always on the GO and met many friends along the way! Every day was an opportunity to spoil all his girls whether it was hugs, flowers, groceries, meals or candy. With a bourbon in hand, he would cheer on the Buffalo Bills with his son-in-law. Life without Dad will be a whole lot quieter.

He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Kristine Hoene Zawadzki; children, Rebekah Zawadzki Gonzalez and husband Gabriel Gonzalez of Siera Vista, AZ. and Katie Zawadzki Crews and husband Charlie Crews of Clayton, NC; granddaughters, Claire, Norah, and Grace Crews; brother, David Piontek of Hamburg, NY. along with many friends and family who will miss him.

“I love you more”