Thomas Chapogas, a proud and beloved father, grandfather, dear friend, and distinguished scholar, entered into eternal rest peacefully at home on Wednesday, April 9, 2025.
Thomas's journey exemplified remarkable determination and an unyielding drive to succeed. While pursuing his education, he worked tirelessly as an auto mechanic to finance his studies. His dedication and hard work led to an impressive achievement: graduating with top honors from the esteemed RCA Institute of Technology in New York City and moving to Minnesota, where he secured a three-year teaching position at the University of Minnesota.
In the years that followed, Thomas made Bayonne his home for the next 50 years. As he pursued his professional ambitions, his extensive background in computer technology led him to a significant role as a Computer Engineer at Unisys Corporation (formerly Burroughs Corporation) In this capacity, he contributed to critical projects subcontracted for the United States Navy, including the Military Ocean Terminal in Bayonne and Fort Wadsworth on Staten Island.
Affectionately known as "Mr. Fix-It," Thomas possessed an extraordinary knack for repairing anything related to computers or cars. In his quiet moments, he immersed himself in reading, captivated by subjects ranging from history and medicine to electronics, popular science, technology, and world events—his thirst for knowledge was genuinely boundless.
Above all, Thomas's family was the foundation of his life, especially with his role as "Grandpa Chapogas" to his adored grandsons, Nicholas and Collin, who brought him immeasurable joy and fulfillment. His deep empathy extended to all living creatures, evident in his compassion for stray animals he welcomed into his home, including his cherished cat, "Mother," and his loyal mixed Belgian Shepherd, "Noel," both of whom provided companionship and loyalty.
Thomas will be remembered as a man who dedicated himself to uplifting others through his leadership and wisdom. The world is undeniably a better place because of him, and his legacy will thrive through his proud and loving family, as well as the countless lives he touched.
Thomas was predeceased by his beloved wife, Nancy (Banks) Chapogas, and his parents, Nicholas and Bertha (Matsukas) Chapogas. Left to cherish his memory are his son, Thomas, daughter-in-law, Diane, grandsons, Nicholas and Collin, extended family in Brooklyn, many friends, including his longtime dear friend, Maria Zwisler, and neighbors.
Visitation will be held at the Dworzanski & Son Funeral Home on Monday, April 14, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Family and friends will assemble at the funeral home on Tuesday, at 11:15 a.m. for procession to Mount Olivet Cemetery, 65-40 Grand Ave, Maspeth, NY.
Please note: There will be no visitation at the funeral home on Tuesday morning.
May He who rose again from the dead,
Christ our true God:
through the intercessions of
His all-immaculate Mother:
of the holy, glorious, and
all-laudable Apostles:
of our venerable and
God-bearing Fathers and
of all the Saints, establish
in the mansions of the righteous
the soul of His servant, who hath
just been taken from us, and
number this soul among the Just:
and have mercy upon us as much
as He is good and loveth mankind.
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