Tom Donchez

Tom Donchez (March 10, 1952 – August 28, 2024) was an American football running back. He was drafted 102 overall by the Buffalo Bills but was cut and picked up by the Chicago Bears, appearing in 14 games in 1975, mostly on special teams.^[1][2]

Donchez was born in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania on March 10, 1952, to a single mother, Helen Donchez. He graduated from Liberty High School before going on to play college football at Penn State University where he met his wife Sheela.^[3]

Donchez played fullback for Penn State from 1970 to 1974 rushing for 1,422 career yards including 880 yards in 1974, when he had four 100-yard games.^[4] The highlight of his sports career was rushing for three touchdowns against Ohio University in 1974, with Penn State's 35-16 win being their 500th total win in school history.^[4]

After graduation he moved back to his hometown of Bethlehem and worked at Air Products for 35 years, while also earning an MBA from Lehigh University.^[4][3] Donchez helped found Penn State's Letterman's club, and served on the Bethlehem Catholic High School board of trustees.^[3][4]

Donchez was married to his wife Sheela for almost 50 years and had three sons, Andrew Peter and Micheal. Donchez also had two brothers, Dennis and Ron, and a sister Beverley.^[3] He died on August 28, 2024, at the age of 72.^[3]