Obituary of Thomas Michael Powanda

Middlesex, NJ - Thomas Michael Powanda, 86, passed away at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital at Somerset in Somerville on May 29, 2016. Born in Bayonne to his late parents Thomas and Margaret (Cullinane) Powanda, he lived in Jersey City before settling in Middlesex in 1960. An honorably discharged veteran of the United States Army, he served during the Korean War. Thomas worked as a chemist for Celanese located in Summit, and was awarded numerous patents for his work. He was active within the church community of Our Lady of Mount Virgin Parish in Middlesex, enjoyed golf and bowling, and was a Little League coach for many years. He is predeceased by his wife Joaquina, son Thomas Francis, and two siblings, John Powanda and Marie Callahan. Thomas leaves behind his children; Maryann Stefanchik (Randy), Stephen (Karen), Gregory (Karim), Jeffrey (Hsinghua) and Michael. He will be missed dearly by thirteen grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and three siblings, Daniel, Edward, and Richard. Visitation will be held in Middlesex Funeral Home, 528 Bound Brook Road, Middlesex, NJ 08846 on Wednesday, June 1, 2016 from 5-9pm and on Thursay, June 2, 2016 from 8:15 am until 8:45 am. On Thursday, June 2, 2016, funeral services will begin 8:45 am in the funeral home followed by a 9:30 am Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Mount Virgin Church. Mausoleum entombment will follow at Resurrection Burial Park in Piscataway. In lieu of flowers, donations sent to the in hospital hospice of Robert Wood Johnson at Somerset would be appreciated.