Wilton, NY – Thomas R. Gurka, Sr., of Cobble Hill Drive, passed away suddenly on Friday (Nov. 3, 2017), enjoying what he loved best, playing hockey. He was 68.

Born on Sept. 18, 1949 in Philadelphia, PA, he was a son of the late Albert and Veronica (Luczyn) Gurka. He was a diligent worker for 38 years with the SUNOCO Company and retired as Director of Telecommunications in 2005. A member of St. Clement's Roman Catholic Church, he was active in numerous charitable fundraisers in the area.

Tom was current Grand Knight of Saratoga Council 246 Knights of Columbus and also serving as Comptroller of the Saratoga Fourth Degree Assembly 745 K of C. He always enjoyed his daily pizza and an occasional beer at his home bar, in the company of his many friends and family members.

In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by one brother, John Gurka.

Survivors include his wife of 44 years, Mary (Blomquist) Gurka; his son and daughter-in-law, Thomas R. (Jodie) Gurka, Jr. and one granddaughter, Lexi Gurka, all of Wilton and two brothers, Albert and Rick Gurka.

Relatives and friends may call from 4 to 7pm Thursday at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing and Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway (518-584-5373).

The Knights of Columbus will meet at 6pm Thursday at the funeral home for services.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10am Friday in St. Clement's Church, 231 Lake Avenue by the Rev. George J. Blasick, C.Ss.R, pastor. Private burial will be in St. Peter's Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Memorials may be made in his name to the Melodies Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders, 47 New Scotland Ave., MC24, Albany, NY 12208.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.