Thaddeus “Teddy” Szambelak

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Thaddeus “Teddy” Szambelak, on May 20, 2025, a loving husband to Nancy Anne Szambelak (Wagner) father to Matthew Szambelak (Angie Wilson Szambelak) and Annemarie Szambelak , Pop to Colin Szambelak, Carson Szambelak, Willow Wilson, and our angel Kayla Szambelak. devoted brother, brother in law, uncle to many, and friend to all, he departed this world leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and kindness.

Born on October 6, 1948, in Cologne, Germany, Teddy was the beloved son of Pauline Szczerbata Szambelak and Joseph Szambelak. In 1950, they embarked on a new journey to the United States with his sister Sophia and brother Joseph. They settled in Philadelphia, PA in Bridesburg and as years passed, their family grew to include Edward, Walter ,Stanley, Lisa, Teresa, and Richard , building a life grounded in family, faith, and the pursuit of the American dream.

Teddy attended All Saints School and was a proud graduate of North Catholic High School, Class of 1967. His early working years saw him slinging papers around Bridesburg, delivering for “Rug Man”, and helping his father haul cement, instilling in him a strong work ethic. He later became a skilled first-class CNC machinist, dedicating his talents to Hughes Industries, Vermes Machine, United National Machine, and Harwood Design. Through his work, he not only honed his craft but also built lasting friendships, extending his family through the bonds he formed with his coworkers.

Teddy cherished his friendships just as much as his family. He loved reconnecting with his classmates and reminiscing with his teammates from the Bridesburg Rec, and can’t forget about the glory days of the bowling league. He shared countless stories and laughter with those he worked alongside at the pizza shop, always treasuring the camaraderie they built. Some of his fondest memories were escapades with Fred Gontarek, and the endless trips to the shore with Dave Patton, reliving adventures that spanned decades. In recent years, he found joy in rekindling friendships from his teenage years, spending hours reminiscing with old friends about the moments that shaped their youth. His friendships were lifelong, filled with warmth, laughter, and the kind of bonds that never fade.

Being a husband and father was the greatest joy of Teddy’s life. To Nancy, Teddy was always 'Mr. Wonderful'. This April, he and Nancy celebrated their 50th golden anniversary, a milestone marking decades of love, laughter, and unwavering partnership. They were more than a couple—they were a true pair, inseparable in every way. There was no Teddy without Nancy; their lives were so intertwined that one simply couldn’t be mentioned without the other.

Teddy was happiest at home, in the comfort of familiar surroundings, but Nancy had a way of getting him out and about. Whether it was a family gathering, a night out, or an event he wasn’t entirely keen on attending, he’d grumble at first—but in the end, he was always glad he went, thanks to Nancy. Together, they built a life filled with shared routines and traditions, proving that love isn’t just in the grand gestures but in the everyday moments spent side by side. From tackling life’s ups and downs to enjoying quiet mornings together, they did everything as a team, a beautiful partnership that was as strong in the little moments as it was in the big milestones.

He was a devoted father to Matthew and Annemarie, never missing a high school event or a college football or softball game when they played, always cheering them on with pride. His support went far beyond the sidelines—he beamed with joy whenever he talked about his children’s accomplishments, whether in life, school, or their careers. Nothing made him prouder than seeing Matthew and Annemarie succeed, and he never hesitated to share their achievements with others, his voice filled with admiration.

Being “Pop” was one of Teddy’s greatest blessings, a role he embraced with love, humor, and an unmistakable sense of fun. He had a way of making every moment special, filling his grandchildren’s lives with laughter. “Pop" loved to say "Ho-Ho-Ho" year-round, just to hear the familiar response, "You're not Santa!" He loved talking to the kids about Pokémon, sharing in their excitement about daily adventures when in the car, and never missed an opportunity to get them to proudly spell out "E-A-G-L-E-S." He loved watching Colin tackle complicated math problems and hearing Carson sing always brought a smile to his face.

From the very start, Teddy and Angie clicked effortlessly, forming a bond built on mutual respect, laughter, and family. He welcomed her with open arms as his daughter-in-law. He eagerly looked forward to the day Willow would call him "Pop," just like Colin and Carson, knowing it would be another addition to the family he loved so much.

Teddy cherished his time at the shore, singing “On the Way to Cape May” with his family as they made memories together. He loved heading out for a fishing trip on the *Sailor’s Delight*, relishing quiet moments by the canal, and waving to the ferry passengers as they sailed by. Hitting their favorite breakfast spot and spending time with dear friends Joe and Chris Murphy were highlights of his shore days, and nothing beat the simple joy of sharing ice cream sandwiches with Joe while watching the Phillies play.

Teddy’s life was a testament to love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. He was the heart of his family, the friend you could always count on, and the man who made every moment brighter with his warmth and humor. Though Teddy may be gone, his love, laughter, and spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, forever cherished and never forgotten.

Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Teddy’s life by attending his visitation on Thursday June 5th from 12 noon to 1 PM in St. Jerome’s Church 8100 Colfax Street, followed by his 1 PM funeral mass.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Teddy’s name to North Catholic Norphan’s @Norphans.org and would be appreciated by his family.