Thomas Joseph Ivanitz, age 74, passed away peacefully at Spartanburg Regional Medical Center on August 1, 2026, surrounded by friends and close family. Born on January 13, 1952, in Newark, New Jersey, he was the first of three children born to William Robert Ivanitz and Elsie Dolinich. He obtained a bachelor's degree from St. Francis University (PA) and had a long career in sales, most notably with Energizer and Sadlier Books.

Thomas was first and foremost a musician. He co-founded the band SPIRITZ with his sister, Nancy, and his best friend, Mike Spirko. As the years passed, he transitioned to working as an event DJ on his own in several states. In his later years, Thomas became known in Chicago as "DJ Papa" as he played music for SCORES Chicago charity events.

Besides music, Thomas was an avid sports fan and coached soccer for more than 10 years. His favorite teams were the New York Yankees, the New York Giants, his alma mater, St. Francis, and the United States National Soccer Teams. He was proud to say he caught almost all of this year's World Cup matches on TV.

Thomas loved to travel, visiting several countries as well as friends and family members. Shortly after moving to South Carolina, he became a regular at shows held at the Peace Center in Greenville and belonged to St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Spartanburg.

He is survived by his son, Jason, and daughter-in-law, Vanessa; his partner, Joyce Liobis; his sister, Janice Preckwinkle; his brother-in-law, Jack Sorokach; and his niece, Kristin Gendreau, her husband, Matt, and their children, Connor and Valerie.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Nancy Sorokach, and his brother-in-law, Don Preckwinkle.

A funeral Mass for Thomas will take place at St. Bartholomew the Apostle Catholic Church in Scotch Plains, New Jersey, followed immediately by burial at Holy Trinity Cemetery in Perth Amboy, New Jersey. The date and time will be announced to family and friends shortly.

Thomas was a wonderful and caring man. He will be deeply missed by all who spent time with him.