Harry J. Banaszak, age 90, formerly of Merrill, died Wednesday, October 20, 2010, at the Wisconsin Veteran’s Home, King, Wisconsin. Harry was born April 14, 1920, in Milwaukee, son on the late John and Constance (Dembik) Banaszak. He married Dorothy Harbath on June 1, 1946, in St. Casimirs Catholic Church, Milwaukee. She preceded him in death on May 8, 2003. Harry served in the U.S. Army and was stationed throughout the European theater during World War II. He attained the rank of Master Sergeant, and was awarded the Bronze Star for meritorious service. Harry and his late wife Dorothy owned and operated D&H Food Mart on Merrill’s Westside. He then went to work at the former People’s IGA Store in Merrill’s Sixth Ward. At the time of his retirement, Harry was the transit administrator for the City of Merrill. Harry enjoyed playing the accordion, and he was a past member of the Milwaukee Musicians Association. He was also a former member of the Knights of Columbus.
Survivors include two sons: Tom Banaszak, San Diego, California, and Tim (Bonnie) Banaszak, Waupaca; and two grandchildren, Cassie and Nickolas Banaszak. Harry is preceded in death by his siblings, Rose Opperman, Marie Tisch, Esther Cullbreth, and George and Helen Banaszak.
The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 A.M. Tuesday, October 26, 2010, at St. Francis Catholic Church, Merrill. The Rev. Father Michael McLain will be the celebrant. Burial will take place in St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, Merrill, with graveside military rites conducted by the Merrill V.F. W. Post 1638 Honor Guard. Visitation will be from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. Monday at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill, and at the church on Tuesday beginning at 10:00 A.M.
Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com