St. Stephen Says Goodbye to Longtime Parishioner

Family and friends will gather today at 11 a.m. at St. Stephen Catholic Church, 5049 Bell Shoals Road, Valrico, to celebrate the life of longtime parishioner Michael Goldonowiz.

The Brandon man died April 6 at the age of 61.

A charter member of St. Stephen Catholic, he was born in Taunton, Mass., on Sept. 03, 1949, and live in Brandon for 25 years.

A graduate of St. Anselm’s College in Manchester, N.H., and Cardinal Stritch College in Milwaukee, Wis, he earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology and master’s degree in special education.  He shared his talents by working with children with physical and mental disabilities as a special education teacher for 35 years before retiring in 2008. 

He was active at St. Stephen Catholic Church as an Extraordinary Minister of the Eucharist, a member of the Knights of Columbus and a part of the money-counting ministry. He enjoyed spending time with his family, traveling, bargain shopping, game nights and movie nights, and spending time in New England.

He shared a great sense of humor, a perpetual positive attitude and a quiet but steadfast faith that was an example and joy to everyone who knew him. 

Survivors include his loving wife of 25 years, Janice, daughters; Jessica Marie Goldonowicz and Joanna Marie Goldonowicz, mother; Emily Goldonowicz, brother; John Goldonowicz, and sister; Carol (Joseph) Catanzano.

A funeral Mass in celebration of his  life will be held at St. Stephen Catholic Church on Monday, April 11, at 11 a.m. There will be a visitation from 10 a.m. to 11 a. m. at church prior to Mass.

Memorial donations may be made to “Building Our Future Together” care of St. Stephen Catholic Church, 5049 Bell Shoals Road, Valrico, 33596.