Thomas N. Crognale, 91, of West Fairview, PA, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, June 18, 2023. Born in West Fairview, he was the son of the late Donato and Domenica (Ciccioppio) Crognale.
A Veteran of the Korean Conflict, Tom proudly served with the U.S. Army. He worked for the former Bell Telephone Company (now Verizon) for 44 years before retiring in 2003, which allowed him to spend his time building houses and volunteering in the community. His love for West Fairview and East Pennsboro Township was a commitment that will live long on after his death.
Tom was a lifelong member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, Enola, and was very active in the Parish family. His many community memberships included the East Pennsboro Education Foundation as well as a longtime member of the Sons of the Pioneers. He was also the President of the East Pennsboro Historical Society for many years. While working at the EPHS, his proudest accomplishment was spearheading the planning and execution of the Nail Mill Museum at Adams-Ricci Park. His efforts educated so many residents on the history of the 19th century factory situated in West Fairview.
He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Nancy (Machamer) Crognale. They spent their free time traveling extensively. An avid sailor, many of their adventures were spent on the water and visiting family in Italy. He is also survived by three siblings: Victor “Vic” Crognale, of Camp Hill, Michael L. Crognale, of West Fairview and Joseph D. Crognale, of West Fairview, as well as Tom’s many nieces, nephews, extended family and caring friends.
Tom will be welcomed into Heaven by his two cherished daughters, Lisa Ann & Mary Beth. He was a devoted father, brother, uncle, godfather and friend. His quiet presence, sitting on his front porch watching his beloved Susquehanna River will be undeniably missed.
There will be no visitation or public viewing. A Mass of Christian Burial will begin promptly at 11 AM on Friday, June 23, 2023 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 225 Salt Road, Enola, PA 17025, with Reverend Robert Yohe as Celebrant. Public interment will follow in Resurrection Cemetery, Harrisburg.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Tom’s memory to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 4309 Linglestown Road, Suite 108, Harrisburg, PA 17112, 717-671-4000, www.cff.org or to Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church and mailed to the address above.
Arrangements have been entrusted with the Sullivan Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 51 North Enola Drive, Enola, PA 17025, 717-732-5400. Memories and condolences may be shared at: www.sullivanfuneralservices.com
5 comments on “Thomas N. Crognale”
Just today I learned of Tom’s passing. I am writing this as my heart is hurting. Tom’s friendship with my husband was one of great respect and the two of them had a wonderful, long and close relationship. I could never thank Tom enough for the hours, days and months he spent in helping to build our house. What talent! I know he is being sorely missed by Nancy, his family and friends, and I so value having known him.
Tom will be missed his love and dedication to the town of West Fairview will be remembered. His devotion to his wife and to his two beloved daughters Nancy and I would talk of our daughters that went on before us. God blessing upon Nancy and the Crognale family.
My wife Susan and I would like to express our sorrow of Tom’s passing. Tom and the whole Crognale family were always very close and good to my entire family as I grew up in West Fairview.
He will be missed.
My thoughts and prayers go to Nancy and his family at this sad time. Tom was a good man whom I’ve known for many years. He is with his beloved daughters now. Mary (Clipp) Snyder
I am sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. My Mom and Dad took us as children to visit his parents. He often was there. Then, when I would take Mom to the West Fairview Reunion, we would have such nice talks with him reminiscing about life in West Fairview. I know he will be missed.