Thomas E. Baranowski

With a life rich in experiences and contributions, Thomas E. Baranowski, a lifelong Bayonne resident, entered into eternal rest peacefully on December 8, 2024. 

Thomas exemplified true patriotism, serving his country honorably as a US Army soldier in France and Vietnam.  He took immense pride in his role as a Military Police dog handler, to which he dedicated himself wholeheartedly. Thomas's unwavering commitment to his country led him to volunteer for transfer from France to Vietnam.  He bravely patrolled the grounds and perimeter wearing the distinctive tiger stripe camouflage uniform.  This uniform signified his participation in special forces operations and elite jungle missions.  Later he took on the critical role of helicopter door gunner. In this heavily armed position, his job was to defend the aircraft while seated at its side.  Although this role was essential for the safety of the helicopters and their crews, it was also incredibly dangerous, making door gunners vulnerable targets and often resulting in fatalities. After fulfilling his military service, he lived in Chicago for many years where he held jobs as a skilled craftsman and machinist.  He made his way back to Bayonne to live out his final years surrounded by family and friends.

Thomas truly valued the moments he spent during holidays and celebrations with family, where he often enjoyed a glass of red wine in their company. His presence brightened every gathering.  He was a captivating storyteller and his vivid narratives and contagious enthusiasm created an inviting atmosphere that everyone loved.  He also spent time socializing in his hometown of Bayonne, with friends and fellow veterans he knew from town as well as those he met through the VA.

Thomas's integrity and loyalty were shining examples of what it means to be an "American Hero." He consistently demonstrated courage in the face of adversity, always standing up for his beliefs and values. Whether through acts of kindness or moments of bravery, he inspired everyone he encountered. The world feels a little less bright without him, but his legacy will be remembered for all eternity.

Thomas was predeceased by his parents, Felix and Anna (Moskal) Baranowski, and his brothers, Richard L. and Walter Baranowski, Edward Baranowski (Genevieve), and Felix Baranowski (Hazel). Left to cherish his memory are his sisters, Arlene Zerilli (Joseph) and Carol Kvedar, and his brother, John Baranowski (Marie). Also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, and grand-nieces and grand-nephews. 

Relatives and friends are invited to attend visiting hours at the Dworzanski & Son Funeral on Thursday, December 19, from 8:45 a.m. to 10:15 am. A 10:30 am funeral mass in Thomas's honor will be held at St. John Paul II Parish, 39 East 22nd Street, Bayonne. Interment will follow at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, 350 Province Line Rd, Wrightstown, NJ.

FOOTPRINTS

One night a man had a dream. He dreamed

he was walking along the beach with the LORD.

Across the sky flashed scenes from his life.

For each scene, he noticed two sets of

footprints in the sand: one belonging

to him, and the other to the LORD.

When the last scene of his life flashed before him,

he looked back at the footprints in the sand. He noticed that many times

along the path of his life there was only one set of footprints.

He also noticed that it happened at the very

lowest and saddest times in his life.

This really bothered him and he

questioned the LORD about it:

"LORD, you said that once I decided to follow

you, you'd walk with me all the way.

But I have noticed that during the most

troublesome times in my life,

there is only one set of footprints.

I don't understand why when

I needed you most you would leave me."

The LORD replied:

"My son, my precious child,

I love you, and I would never leave you.

During your times of trial and suffering,

when you see only one set of footprints,

it was then that I carried you."

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas E. Baranowski, please visit our floral store.