Joseph J. Bak Jr

Joseph J. Bak Jr., passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on August 30, 2022.  He was born in Buffalo New York on March 10,1940 to the late Joseph and Cecelia (Owczarkowski) Bak.

Joseph was a graduate of McKinley High School. He then went on to honorably serve his country in the United States Army as a helicopter crew chief. He worked for over 36 years for United Airlines in ramp service. He also worked as a union steward for Local Lodge 75 and later as an Assistant General Chairman and Director of Flight Safety for IAMAW District 141.

In addition to his dedication to his career, Joseph was extremely passionate towards sled dog racing, marathon running, NASCAR, photography, traveling, gardening, and the countless events that he never missed for his grandkids. He was an avid bow hunter and a member of the Hawkeye Bowmen. He also enjoyed working in the concessions department at the Erie County Fair, recently named as the “mayor” of the fair. Joe was truly a man of many amazing accomplishments and passions, he never stopped until his last day.

He is survived by his loving wife of over 56 years, Jean (Reitz) Bak; beloved father of Julie (Wendel) Lainey, and Lori Baumler. He was the best “Bumpa” to Adam Lainey, Gage Baumler, Jacob Lainey, Natalie Baumler and fur baby “Beau”.

Everyone is welcome to attend A Celebration of Life on Saturday, September 10, 2022 at the Lower Grandstand of the Erie County Fairgrounds, 5600 McKinley Parkway, Hamburg, NY from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m.

A Private Military Burial will be held at the Western New York National Cemetery, Corfu, NY. 

Flowers gratefully declined. Donations to honor Joe can be directed to Hawkeye Bowman c/o Dave Reed, 7401 Clinton Street, Elma, NY 14059 or Erie County Agricultural Society Scholarship Fund, 5600 McKinley Parkway, Hamburg, NY 14075 or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements by Ross Funeral Home of Akron, LLC. To share memories and condolences with Joe’s family please visit rossakron.com.