Thomas Phillip Kilionski Sr., affectionately known by friends and family as Tom, passed away peacefully in his Cassville home Saturday, November 23, 2024, after a long illness. He graced this world with his warmth and ingenuity April 27, 1944, in Granville, a son of the late Frank Alexander Kilionski and Mary Agnes Ponka Kilionski.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great- grandfather, brother and uncle, Tom leaves behind a legacy of love and inspiring achievements. He held strong beliefs and his integrity, respect, honor, and loyalty to family and friends was unmatched.
Tom shared 61 memorable years of marriage with his dear wife, Joyce Slavensky Kilionski, whom he adored and loved beyond measure. He was a cherished father to Thomas P. Jr. (Trish) of Morgantown, Stephen (Amy) of Carthage, N.Y., and Mary Margaret of Dunedin, Fla. His brother, John (Ruth), and sister-in-law, Betty, share in the family’s grief. His legacy flourishes through his six grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his children, Craig, Leandra, and Candace; brother, Frank V.; and great- grandson, Camden.
Tom’s emphasis on education and knowledge were evident through his actions. He ensured his children were prepared for life. Memories were made around the home and garage as he taught them skills that have been passed on to his grandchildren.
An illustrious career as an aerospace engineer crowned Tom’s professional life, having acquired several degrees from the University of Minnesota. His 40 years in the space industry spanned the country and laid the groundwork for America’s aeronautical leaps, including the Saturn, Apollo, and Space Shuttle programs. Tom not only contributed to significant milestones, but was instrumental in setting the stage for innovations in future space programs. His contributions resulted in him receiving recognition in multiple ways including being awarded the highly coveted and distinguished Silver Snoopy Award, the highest honor Astronauts bestow on those who provide outstanding support and expertise to the Space Shuttle Program. As a mentor, he took great joy in encouraging the ascent of budding engineers, leaving an indelible mark on the industry through the many lives he
inspired.
Music resonated deeply with Tom, shaping his world outside of rocket trajectories and engineering schematics. His bands included the Eldorados, the Cayenne Band, and Parallel Motion infusing life into a variety of personal and professional events as well as church gatherings with his musical talents. Celebrating love, he performed at his son Stephen’s wedding. He mastered most instruments, but it was the bass guitar that he held most dear. His melodious presence was as elevating as the spacecraft he helped ascend.
Tom’s calming aura drew people from all walks, seeking his sage advice and counsel. Renowned for uplifting every spirit he encountered, Tom was the golden thread connecting his family and community in an unbreakable bond of kindness and faith – as loving in presence as he was insightful in conversation. His was a legacy intertwined with joy and compassion, where each interaction left a brighter hue on the tapestry of life.
As Albert Einstein once profoundly said, “Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile.” Tom embodied this sentiment, living fully focused on his family and ensuring his time on this earth was dedicated to the betterment of both loved ones and humankind. His enduring spirit of generosity, wisdom, and joy will continue to resonate through the stories told, the rockets launched, and the melodies played – an echo of a life so lovingly lived.
Thomas Phillip Kilionski, Sr., will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He departed from this life as he lived it: with dignity, surrounded by the melody of family, the memories of a remarkable journey, and the quiet hum of a life that lifted others to the stars.
Family and friends are invited to gather from 10 to 11 a.m., when a Mass of Christian Burial will be held, Saturday, November 30, in St. Mary Roman Catholic Church, with the Rev. Fr. John P. McDonough as celebrant. Burial will follow at East Oak Grove Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to the America Heart Association or the Epilepsy Foundation, in Tom’s name.
Condolences can be shared with the family at www.fredjenkinsfuneral
home.com
