Thomas Paul Kilonsky

Thomas Paul Kilonsky, of Haughton, LA, passed away on October 4th, 2024 at the age of 77 after a long debilitating battle with Dementia and other related health conditions. Born on August 30, 1947, in Buffalo, NY, Thomas dedicated 24 years of service to the United States Air Force as a Radio Relay & Microwave Antenna Technician and Trainer, ensuring vital communications were maintained across various bases throughout his career.

After his retirement, Tom shifted his talents to a successful career with AT&T International, where he played a pivotal role in managing the engineering and installation of new cellular networks in Germany and Poland.

His passion for electronics never waned; he was perpetually engaged in tinkering with the latest and greatest technology. He developed a learning program for his children to help them with school, (Although he was the only one who knew how to use it!) 

His personality was as vibrant as his career was illustrious. Known for his playful nature, he often brought laughter (and embarrassment) at family gatherings with his humorous antics. He claimed he never wanted to be the center of attention but always managed to bring the focus back to him with his extemporaneous “tomfooleries”. For example, one of his favorites was requesting a paper bag full of money from unsuspecting wait staff when dining out. One waitress went out of her way to put a bunch of change into a paper bag to give to him.

His warmth extended beyond family, as he cherished hugging anyone open to his warm hugs. One Christmas he gave out hugs at Walmart to anyone that needed one. (This was intended to embarrass his daughter Kristie), but we all soon realized the value of his spontaneous hugs as so many people expressed their appreciation because they lived alone and were starved of something as simple as a hug. It was a heartwarming display of his kind-hearted nature and the lengths he would go to in which to bring a smile to someone’s face. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Denise J. Kilonsky, and daughters, Pamela (Dwayne) Daugherty, Dawn (Shannon) Cosper, Cindy (Daryl) Thompson, Kristie (Lee) Pierocich; son, Robert (Theresa) Kilonsky; twelve grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Lorraine, brother Joe Kilonsky, and his previous wife and mother of his 5 children Evon (Smith) Kilonsky. 

In line with his wishes, there will be no memorial service. We will however have a Pot Luck Celebration of Life gathering at their home on Friday, November 1st, 2024 from 5- 8 pm. Please join the family with a covered dish, bring your favorite beverage, and a “tomfoolery” tell to share with family and friends. 

Thomas's legacy and dedication will continue to inspire all who were lucky enough to know him.

Instead of flowers, the family requests donations in the name of Thomas Kilonsky to the NWLA Veterans Home, Recreation & Welfare Fund. Checks can be mailed to the NWLA Veterans Home, 3130 Arthur Ray Teague Pkwy, Bossier City, LA 71112. This fund will benefit all resident veterans with funding for their welfare and recreational activities and events. It’s a wonderful way to thank our veterans for their sacrifices and service to our country.

MEMORIES:

 From Dawn Kilonsky Cosper. My Dad was always the life of the party. His silly ways to make someone laugh. Of course, he had his serious side, but even as a child I always knew he loved me. As we got older, and so did he, I started to understand the choices he made in life. He wasn’t there physically but his heart was. When he came back to the States from working abroad, he was older and wiser. He taught me to be strong, selfless, and kind. He also taught me that life is too short to be serious. I love you, Daddy. You will be missed.