Thomas Richard Biondo of Sparta, N.J., passed away on Friday, July 30, 2021, surrounded by love. He was 69.
He was born in Jersey City, N.J., on May 15, 1952, to Vincent and Catherine “Kathleen” Biondo (O’Carroll). Tom grew up and lived in Jersey City, moving briefly to Jackson and Barnegat, N.J., before settling with his wife, Lucille, in Sparta.
He attended St. Peter’s Prep High School and then went to St Peter’s University and obtained a master’s degree in history and education. He started his professional career teaching at St. Peter’s Prep High School, working his way through progressive roles ultimately retiring from Castle Middle School #345 in New York, N.Y., as Dean in 2015. He coached many basketball, football, and rugby teams, helping so many young athletes become men of character. It was something he loved beyond compare, and his students loved Coach Biondo. His undisputed wit and boisterous laughter will never be forgotten.
Tom married his beloved wife, Lucille (Cinciarelli), in 1997, and remained happily married until his death. Tom enjoyed reading, walking, hiking, history, the Catskills, the Jersey shore, and watching “Law and Order,” “Blue Bloods,” and National Geographic documentaries. He also enjoyed visits from his family and friends.
Tom was predeceased by his beloved son, Thomas Vincent Biondo in 2005.
Tom is survived by his wife of 24 years, Lucille Biondo of Sparta; his brother Vincent Biondo of Boiceville, N.Y; his brother Michael Biondo and his wife, Sue Biondo, of Boiceville N.Y.; his daughter Melissa Chagnon and her husband, Robert, of Sparta; his stepdaughter, Gail Van De Wal and her husband, Jerry, of Fair Haven, N.J.; his stepson, Louis Meloro and his wife, Mayi, of Long Valley, N.J.; his grandchildren, Annalise, Ella, Robby, and Luke; and several nieces and nephews. He is also survived by many friends and extended family.
Visitation was held Aug. 2 at Goble Funeral Home, Sparta. A funeral mass was held Aug. 3 at St. Kateri Church, Sparta..
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice (99 Sparta Avenue, Newton, NJ 07860) or Saint Kateri Church (427 Stanhope Sparta Road, Sparta, NJ 07871) would be kindly appreciated by his family.