Thomas W. Jankiewicz

JANKIEWICZ

Thomas William Jankiewicz, March 13, 1945 – February 22, 2026 , lovingly known to many as “Yank,” passed away
surrounded by the family he cherished above all else. Born on March 13, 1945, to
William and Helen Jankiewicz, Tom was raised in the Port Richmond section of
Philadelphia, where he learned the values of hard work, loyalty, faith, and family
that would define his life.
Tom attended St. Ann’s Elementary School and graduated from Northeast
Catholic High School in 1963. He went on to study at East Stroudsburg University
before answering a higher call to serve his country. On September 23, 1965, he
enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Over the course of a distinguished
military career spanning nearly four decades, Tom rose through the ranks and
retired as a Master Gunnery Sergeant on March 13, 2004—his 59th birthday. He
carried the title and spirit of the Marine Corp with immense pride throughout his
life.
In addition to his military service, Tom dedicated 42 years as a proud member of
Ironworkers Local 401. His skilled hands helped shape skylines, contributing to
the construction of numerous casinos in Atlantic City as well as high-rise
buildings and stadiums in New York City. Following the tragic events of
September 11, 2001, Tom answered the call once again—this time helping erect
cranes to aid in rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero. It was simply who he
was: when needed, he showed up.
Tom also served as a Court Officer with the First Judicial District of Pennsylvania,
continuing his lifelong commitment to public service within the Philadelphia court
system.
He was also a proud and active member of the Marine Corps Law Enforcement
Foundation, Philadelphia Chapter. Tom founded the annual MCLEF Philadelphia
Sporting Clay Shoot, combining his love of camaraderie and service to support
the children of fallen military and federal law enforcement officers. He took
tremendous pride in giving back to the armed forces and law enforcement
community—a mission he held close to his heart.
An avid basketball player, coach, and lifelong fan, Tom found joy on the court and
in the stands. He devoted countless hours to coaching his children during their
years at Our Lady of Good Counsel School in Moorestown, NJ. Whether it was
basketball, track, or football, he was always present—cheering, encouraging, and
proudly supporting his children and later his grandchildren.

Above all else, Tom was a family man. He was a devoted and loving husband to
Joan, his one true love and high school sweetheart. He was a proud father to his
sons: Tom (Holly), Billy (partner Denisse), and Jim (Stacy). Nothing brought him
greater pride than being “Pop-Pop” to his five adoring grandchildren: TJ, Alex,
Kaitlyn, Leila, and Avery—who were the light of his life.
He is also survived by his loving sister, Mary Smith (Jerry); his sister-in-law,
Stella Caprini, and her husband, Dr. Joseph Caprini; and his nieces: Mary Lou,
Jackie, Jennifer, Michelle, Carol, and Lara. He was predeceased by his sister-in-
law, Margaret Ronn (John).
He will be deeply missed by his extended family and dear friends—most notably
the Honorable Seamus McCaffery (Lise)—as well as his fellow Marines and
brother ironworkers. All who knew him will forever carry memories of his
strength, humor, and loyalty.
Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing Monday March 9th 9:00 AM at St. Albert the Great Church 212 Welsh Rd. Huntingdon Valley PA 19006. Funeral Mass 10:30 AM. Interment Washington Crossing National Cemetery.
Tom lived a life defined by service—to his country, his union, his community, and
most importantly, his family. His legacy stands tall.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Tom’s memory to
the Marine Corps Law Enforcement Foundation MC- LEF PO BOX 11653 Philadelphia, PA 19116.
Semper Fidelis. Hoo-Ra!