Thomas Raymond Koballa

February 6, 1925 - January 21, 2010
Thomas Raymond Koballa

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Thomas Raymond Koballa , 84, of Wilmington passed away on Thursday, January 21, 2010 at The Commons of Brightmore. He had previously been a resident of Fayetteville, North Carolina for 35 years.

Tom was born February 6, 1925 in Palmer, Pennsylvania; he was the son of the late Michael and Anna Koballa. He served in the United State Marine Corps during World War II and after attending the University of Pittsburg, was commissioned in the United State Army where he was a Bronze Star Medal recipient during the Vietnam War. During his Army career, he completed his undergraduate and master’s degrees at North Carolina State University. He later completed his working career teaching Psychology at Fayetteville Technical Community College at the age of 65.

Tom is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Dorothy A. Koballa; a brother, Emil Koballa and wife Erma of Fullerton, California; children Thomas R. Koballa, Jr. and wife Dava of Athens, GA, Donna M. Scroggins and husband Stacy of Jupiter, FL, Michael A. Koballa and wife Linda of Greensboro, NC, Dennis S. Koballa and wife Anne of Durham, NC and Patrick J. Koballa and wife Cheryl of Wrightsville Beach, NC; and 10 grandchildren, Kendal Koballa, Christopher McMillan, Matthew McMillan, Brett Scroggins, Michael Koballa, Jr., Kate Koballa, Emily Koballa, Sam Koballa, Erin Koballa and Kasey Koballa.

His family would like to express a special thank you to the doctors and staff of New Hanover Medical Group on College Road, the staff at The Commons at Brightmore and the members of Liberty Hospice.

The family will receive friends at Wilmington Burial and Cremation Service, from 1:30 – 3:00 on Saturday, January 30, 2010.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Marks Catholic Church in Wilmington or to the charity of one’s choice in his name.

Please share memories and condolences by clicking on the “Sign Guest Book” tab above.

Wilmington Burial and Cremation Service, 1535 S 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403 910.791.9099


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  • January 25, 2010
    Jeff &Joann Umphlet/ Mike Umphlet says:
    Pat, You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. GOD BLESS

  • January 22, 2010
    John Marchese says:
    Pat and Family, Very sorry to hear of your loss. My deepest sympathy.

  • January 24, 2010
    Gwen Pheagin Holtsclaw says:
    Dear Donna and Family, Please know that I send you my deepest sympathies on the loss of your father. You have an amazing family and that strength is apparent in times like these. Donna, please let me know if I can do anything for you . . . you remain so special to me. Gwen Holtsclaw

  • January 24, 2010
    Fr. Steve Carlson and parish Staff says:
    Peace be with you. The parish staff of Saint Mark offers their sympathy to the Koballa family at the death of Thomas.

  • January 24, 2010
    Billy B Shackelford says:
    I am so sorry for your loss, All our prayers are with your family during this difficult time...............Shack