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Kunkletown man dies in Christmas Eve crash

A 33-year-old Kunkletown man was killed in a one-car crash early Sunday morning.

Thomas Joseph "TJ" Janotti, an all-star high school basketball player, died in a crash at 12:28 a.m. on Spruce Hollow Road in Towamensing Township.

He was the husband of Jillian Leslie (Bruch) Janotti. Together for fifteen years, they were married on Sept. 23 of this year.

According to his obituary, TJ's life revolved around his family.

“He was not only the greatest father but also the most patient and loving family man. He looked forward to every family gathering and holiday. He loved sports and coaching. He was an all star basketball player growing up and loved every second of coaching his son Damen on and off the court."

In addition to his wife and parents, TJ is survived by a son, Damen Janotti; two daughters, Rielle Janotti and Isabella Garcia; a brother, Jason A. Janotti and wife Alexandra of Bradenton, FL; a sister, Nicole A. Votta and husband Chris of Perkasie; nieces, Ella Votta, Amelia Bruch, Evelyn Bruch; a nephew, Trevor Janotti; a grandfather, Alfred Pugliano; and many aunts and uncles.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, Dec. 29 at 8 p.m. from the Kresge Funeral Home, 1763 Route 209 Brodheadsville, with Rev. Michael Quinnan officiating. A visitation will be held on Friday from 2: to 4 p.m. and from 6 p.m. until the time of the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family in care of Jillian L. Bruch-Janotti, 177 Golf View Dr., Kunkletown, PA 18058.

A Gofundme account for the family has raised $25,590 of the  $35,000 goal in one day.