Thomas Gonia

Thomas Alan Gonia, 71, of Duluth, passed away unexpectedly, Wednesday, June 22, 2016 in his home.

Alan was born in Schenectady, NY, on November 19, 1944 to Thomas and Freda (Cogburn) Gonia. Growing up as an Air Force “Brat” Alan lived all over the US.  He graduated from high school in Okinawa where he enjoyed snorkeling and “partying on the beach”. Alan married Suzan Morgan in 1976 in Wichita, KS.  During his life in Wichita he worked as Technical Writer at Beechcraft, Supervisor of Technical Publications for Learjet.  In 1998 he took a job as Director of Certification at Cirrus Design and moved his family to Duluth.  During his 13 years at Cirrus he traveled the world to certify planes in China, Chili, and Germany, he also traveled to Japan and Brazil.

Alan loved to fish on his boat and enjoyed his family, especially his grandson Max.  He will be missed by all his friends and family.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father.

Alan is survived by his wife, Suzan; sons, Chad, and Morgan; daughter, Lauren, grandson, Max; brother, Richard J. Gonia; and nephews, family, and friends.

Memorial service will be 11AM, Monday, June 27, 2016, with visitation one hour prior, in the Dougherty Funeral Home.

Arrangements by Dougherty Funeral Home, 600 E 2nd Street, Duluth, MN, 218-727-3555