10/11/1926 - 1/4/2021
OBITUARY PIOTROWSKI – Thomas A., 94, passed away on Monday, January 4, 2021 after suffering a stroke.
Beloved husband of Geraldine for 62 years. Loving father to four daughters, Joanne, Mary, Susan (Neil) and Eileen (John). Tom was adored by his 7 grandchildren.
He was a Past Grand Knight of New Hyde Park Council 2852 where he also served as
Treasurer and had an active role in the Knights of Columbus Senior Club.
He was the originator of the Knights of Columbus “Light Up for Christ” for Christmas program in 1986 that the Supreme Order adopted and is now a worldwide program at Knights of Columbus councils.
Tom was also a member of the American Legion Ernie Pyle Post No. 1089.
He graduated from Brooklyn Tech High School and then enlisted in the US Navy Air Corp. He served in World War II as a Sergeant Bombardier in the Navy Ordinance flying in the Liberator B24 aircraft and then served in the Navy Reserves.
When he was discharged, he became a founder and owner with his brother, Frank
Piotroski, of one of the first ballpoint pen companies – Ballerina Pen Company. The pens were used throughout the world, including at the White House. Under a government contract, Ballerina produced the black US Government pens that people recognized at all government facilities including post offices, military bases, and war zones. Ballerina also had a contract to produce hand grenade pins during the Korean War using the same manufacturing equipment.
Visiting hours will be at the New Hyde Park Funeral Home, 506 Lakeville Road, New Hyde Park, on Friday, January 8 from 7pm - 9pm. Due to Covid, the family wants our loved ones to be safe and understands that many will only be able to remember Tom in their hearts. A celebration of Tom’s life will be held once it is safe to gather.
Mass of Christian burial will be at Notre Dame Church, 45 Mayfair Road, New
Hyde Park on Saturday, January 9, at 10:15AM, followed by interment at Pinelawn Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, a contribution to the American Heart Association in Tom’s memory would be appreciated.
VISITATION
Friday, January 8
7:00 - 9:00 PM
New Hyde Park Funeral Home
506 Lakeville Road, New Hyde Park, NY MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL
Saturday, January 9
10:15 AM
Notre Dame Roman Catholic Church 45 Mayfair Road, New Hyde Park, NY
INTERMENT
Pinelawn Memorial Park 2030 Wellwood Avenue, Farmingdale, NY