Joseph C. Bak

Joseph C. Bak, 92

Youngstown…Joseph C. Bak, 92, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 10, 2024 at Hospice House of Boardman. 

Joseph was born on March 23, 1932, a son of Joseph and Sophia Skowron Bak. He was raised in Campbell and grew up working in various roles for the family grocery store business. A 1951 graduate of Campbell Memorial High School, he then attended Youngstown College. After honorable time served in the U.S. Army 1954-1956 (Korean War Veteran), his career in the grocery industry spanned almost 60 years between Youngstown and the Virginia Beach area, with Kroger, Freshmark Brands and Rulli Brothers. Joe was an avid wine enthusiast and spent a brief time selling for various wineries. 

His wife, the former Mary Ann Balasko, whom he married on September 1, 1958, passed away in October 2019. 

Joseph will be deeply missed by his brother-in-law, Father George Balasko; nephew, Larry Repasky; his companion Martha Mesaros; and many nieces and nephews. Also, special mention to his dear friends Anthony Amendola & family & dog Bailey of Boardman, for their dedication to Joseph’s well-being and care in his later years. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Dr. Edward Bak, and sister Margaret. 

Among Joseph’s many interests and contributions were his memberships in the Direction Home of Eastern Ohio and in numerous grocery and retail industry organizations. He generously offered donations and his time to several local valley charitable organizations. 

Joe was an avid football fan and cheered for his beloved Ohio State Buckeyes. Gardening, flower cultivation and meticulous lawn & landscape maintenance were among his post-retirement hobbies and interests. 

A Memorial Mass will be held Memorial Day May 27, 2024 at 4p.m. at St. Paul Monastery in Canfield, Ohio.  The Mass will be celebrated by Father George Balasko.

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