Joseph S. “Skeets” Baraniak, 89, Boswell, died Feb. 21, 2013 at In-Touch Hospice House, Somerset. Born Sept. 23, 1923 in Boswell the son of Edward and Mary (Nymick) Baraniak. Preceded in death by parents, brother Paul R. and sister Kathryn B. Szewczyk. Survived by wife of 61 years, Catherine (Tasin); son James R. married to Luray (Folton), Jennerstown and daughter Linda M. married to John Hemberry, Jennerstown; grandchildren: Wesley Peterson, Mooresville, N.C. and Tessa Peterson, Philadelphia; sister Mary Jane married to Gene Neal, Dayton, Ohio; brother Edward S., Grand Prairie, Texas; sister-in-law Emma Rizzo, Boswell; and brother-in-law Louie Tasin married to Pauline (Phillips), Baltimore, Md. A 1943 graduate of Boswell High School. A decorated U.S. Army veteran of W.W.II where he participated in Battle of Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge. He was also a POW and a recipient of the Purple Heart. Retired employee of former Crane Company, Somerset. Member of All Saints Catholic Parish, Boswell Post 461 American Legion for 67 years and Boswell Water Authority. He enjoyed auto racing, watching the Steelers and Pirates, playing the numbers, eating sweets and going to the tunnel with his son Jim. Skeets was a very good handyman who knew a little about everything. He was a loving grandfather and hero to his grandchildren. The family would like to thank In-Touch Hospice for all their kindness and compassion. A Funeral Mass will be held 10 a.m. Wednesday at All Saints Catholic Church, Boswell with Rev. Fr. Justin A. Ratajczak, OFM Conv., celebrant. Committal Mt. Carmel Cemetery, Jennerstown with military rites by the Somerset County Honor Guard. Arrangements by Hoffman Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Boswell. In lieu of flowers donations in Joseph's memory may be sent to In-Touch Hospice House, P.O. Box 1173, Somerset, PA 15501. To express condolences, make a donation or light a candle, visit HoffmanFuneralHomes.com.
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