Joseph C. Bak 1932-2024

Joseph was born 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 from 1954 to 1956 during the Korean War, 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 Sept. 1, 1958, passed away in October 2019.

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

In addition to his wife, 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 Direction Home of Eastern Ohio and 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 and landscape maintenance were among his post-retirement hobbies and interests.

The Bak family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Wasko Funeral Home.

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

Visit www.waskofamily.com to view this obituary and leave condolences with the family.

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