Obituary of Robert A. Baranski
Robert A. Baranski
Robert A. Baranski, age 85, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, May 25, 2021, surrounded by the love of his family. Robert was born on November 12, 1935, the son of the late Anthony S. and Johanna “Jenny” (nee Walowski) Baranski. He was born and raised in Rockdale and was a Joliet resident for the past 60 years. He was a graduate of Joliet Township High School and attended Joliet Junior College.
Robert answered his call of patriotism and proudly served in Korea, with the 1st Marine Division, Battalion HQ from 1952-1957. He retired from the Illinois Department of Transportation as a Bridge Mechanic after 25 years of dedicated service.
Robert was a parishioner of St. Mary Nativity Catholic Church and Holy Cross Church, a member of Cantigny Post #367 and the American Legion Post #1080. He was a proud supporter of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation and St Jude Children's Hospital. Robert was a fan of the Chicago Cubs, Chicago Bears, all University of Michigan sports, and the Illinois Gators. In his free time, he enjoyed relaxing by the water with a fishing pole in his hand, had a love for animals, and enjoyed bird watching. His claim to fame was the time his Marine Corps unit spent as extras in the movie “Battle Cry” (1955). Most important to Robert was his family, especially the time he cherished being a father to his grandsons, James and Brandon Baranski. He will leave a void in the hearts of all who loved him.
Robert is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Anita L.J. Baranski; his four children, Cynthia L. (Jose) Casillas, Julie A. Baranski, Kurt D. Montgomery, and Sandra L. (Thomas) Lodewyck; his grandchildren, Brandon L. Baranski, Marilyn (Jose) Martinez, David (Nicole) Johnson, Sonia (Donald) Sessions, Robert Casillas, Kelly Casillas, Joey Casillas, Brooke Lodewyck, Paige Lodewyck; great-children, Ava and Annabelle Baranski, Makayla, Gianna, Angelina, and Rebecca Johnson, and Miracle Sessions; one sister, Lorertta S. DeCampi; nieces and nephews, Michael (Cyndi) Ceranski, Jennie (Keith) Watkins, Susan (Michael) Litwiller, and Ronald (Sherese) Pruss, Jr.; his mother-in-law, Mildred T. Pruss; and his brothers-in-law, Joseph Pruss, and Ronald (Donna) Pruss. Robert will be truly missed by his faithful canine companion, “Rowin” and his favorite feline, “Kiki”. Numerous cousins also survive.
He is preceded by his parents; and his grandson, James C. Baranski
A Memorial Mass for Robert A. Baranski will be held on Wednesday, June 9, 2021, at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 901 Elizabeth St., Joliet, IL, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 am. Inurnment will follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery with full military honors held under the auspices of the United States Marine Corps and the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery Memorial Squad.
In lieu of flowers, memorials to Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, 18900 Jefferson Davis Highway Triangle, VA 22172, would be appreciated. For more information please call the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home at 815-741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.
