It is with great sadness that the family of Thomas Walter Kolenski, Jr., of Franklinville, announces his sudden passing on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at the young age of 56. Thomas was born in Stratford, N.J., on Tuesday, May 6, 1969. He was raised in Blackwood, and graduated from Camden County Vocational Technical High School as an Automotive Engineer (Class of 1987). Tommy loved working on his mustangs and riding his motorcycles. As a youth, he enjoyed wrestling and listening to classic rock; he was the youngest of three children growing up with two older sisters.
Tom is survived by his longtime life partner of over 30 years, Dana M. Caldwell, and their daughter, the love of his life, Stevie M. Kolenski of Franklinville, his mother Florence M. (née Chute) Kolenski of Chesapeake, Virginia, his older sister Lisa A. (née Kolenski) Zielinski of Chesapeake, Virginia, and a cat he named Whiskers. Tom was the son of the late Thomas W. Kolenski, Sr., the brother of the late Theresa M. Gerhard, and best friend to the late Buddy Dog.
He will be greatly missed by his family and friends and forever remembered for his quiet strength, steady presence, and deep love he held for those closest to him. In lieu of flowers and cards, we encourage you to honor Tom’s legacy by donating to the Food Bank of South Jersey at foodbanksj.org. This, we believe, would be the best tribute to his extraordinary life. Services are private at the convenience of the family under the direction of the BARCLAY FUNERAL HOME of Clayton. Sign the guestbook and send condolences at BarclayFuneralHome.net.
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