Obituary for
Thomas James Pientka
Thomas James Pientka, 82, of South Burlington, Vermont passed away on April 20, 2017 surrounded by his family at the VNA Respite House. He was born on Jan 14, 1935 to Evelyn (Timek) and Frank Pientka of Plains, Pennsylvania. Tom grew up in Wilkes-Barre, PA where he met and married Mary Anstett. They lived in Williston, Vermont since 1975.
He worked at IBM for 32 years. Tom was an avid fisherman and hunter, and a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus. He loved spending time with family and friends and enjoyed western movies. Tom also had a passion for vegetable gardening.
Tom is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Mary and their 5 children: Mary Anne (Glenn) Sjoblom; Debbie (Scott) Barnett; Joseph (Janet) Pientka; Stephen Pientka; Bernie (Darcy) Pientka. Tom leaves 10 grandchildren, Megan, Matthew, Nicole, Tyler, Katherine, Karen, Natalie, Sydney, Simon, Francesca and 4 great grandchildren, and his sister, Rose Marie Wickkiser and nieces and nephews. Tom was predeceased by his brothers Ron and Frank Jr.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Dr. Beatty, Dr. Rimmer and Dr. Nina of UVMMC, the dialysis team at Joy Drive, who took great care of him during his years of Dialysis and the VNA Respite House.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Tom's memory to the Society of St. Edmund @ St. Mike's College Edmundite Campus Ministry, Saint Michael’s College, One Winooski Park – Box 256, Colchester, VT 05439. Or
VNA Respite House @https://www.vnacares.org/donating-to-vna/make-an-online-donation.
A service to celebrate his life will be held on May 4th @ 10 am at Holy Family Church in Essex Junction. The family also invites you to share your memories and condolences by visiting www.awrfh.com.
