John M. Thondiyathu

John M. Thondiyathu affectionately known as Thankachen, was born May 8th, 1952 at Thondiyathu Mathilakathu in Pirlassery, Mulakuzha. He was the son of the Late Mr. T.V. Abraham and Late Mrs. Thankamma Abraham. Thankachen was one of eight siblings, which included three brothers; (Mr. Varughese Thondiyathu (Kunjumon), Mr. Mathai Abraham (Aniyan), Late Mr. Skhariah Abraham (Rajan) and four sisters; Mrs. Annamma Koshy, Mrs. Ponnamma George, Mrs. Leelamma Philipose, Mrs. Lisamma Benny and their families. He is survived by his wife Mrs.Thankamoni John (Moni) and his three daughters; Libby, Lincy, and Leslie, son in law; Andrew, Moni’s mom, Estheramma Joseph, and his grandchildren; Lennyx and Nouri.

After graduating high school, Thankachen moved to Goa for work at Timblow Pvt. Ltd. where he was a machine operator for twelve years. In 1984 he immigrated to the United States and made Philadelphia home. In 1985 he married his devoted wife, Moni. Thankachen had a successful sixteen year career at Cardone Industries, where he ultimately had to step away due to health concerns.

Thankachen loved gardening and was very proud to grow his own vegetables every summer. He was very meticulous about keeping his cars clean, and made sure to hand wash them every chance he got. His favorite sport was soccer and eventually grew love for American football, the Eagles being his favorite team. He enjoyed traveling with his family, especially back to Kerala. He loved showing his children where he grew up and where he played as a child. Thankachen loved being able to meet his grandchildren and being an appachen.

Thankachen and family were members of St. Mary’s Cathedral church for many years before becoming a founding member of St. Mary’s at Deveraux. He was active in all committees there, including; picnics, managing committee, lead caroling groups, and much more. After the family moved to Bensalem, he then became a member of St. Gregorios Bensalem where he devotedly worshiped until the very end.

The last part of Thankachen’s life included many hospitalizations and health issues. His final four months were spent on hospice at home with his loving wife and many great caretakers. He passed away peacefully with Moni at his side, holding his hand.

We are deeply saddened by the loss of our husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. We take solace in knowing that he is finally at peace with the almighty lord.

Relatives and friends are invited to John's Viewing Thursday, August 15, 2024 from 6:00 to 8:30 PM, and Viewing and Funeral Service Friday, August 16, 2024 from 8:30 to 10:30 AM, in St. Gregorios Malankara Orthodox Church, 4136 Hulmeville Road, Bensalem, PA 19020. Interment at Rosedale Memorial Park, Bensalem, PA at 11:00 AM.

Pallbearers:

Leslie John, Mathai Abraham, Benny Mathew, Andrew Knable, Jay Ruhnke, Robby Varghese

Acknowledgements:

Our family would like to express our deepest gratitude for all of the love and support during this devastating time. We would especially like to thank our Fr. Shibu Venad Mathai, Fr. Eby Paulose, and all other achens. Also thank you to our SGMOC family for providing support and resources, Fidelity Home Health Agency for taking great care of our dad, Penn Hospice, University of Pennsylvania Health System, and all family and friends. Thank you, and love to you all.

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