John H. Baranski, Jr. 72 of Plains Twp., passed away Sunday August 14, 2022 at home with his family by his side.

Born August 18, 1949 in Hanover Twp., he was the only son of the late John H. and Edith M. Baranski. He was a graduate of Hanover High School, Class of 1967.

John joined the US Air Force in 1967 and served until 1971 having served a year tour of duty in Vietnam as a Sergeant with the 377th Security Police at Tan Son Nhut Air Base where he received the Air Force Commendation Medal after his return. He also received a Presidential Outstanding Unit Award (with combat “V” Device) for meritorious service.

John was a life member of the Vietnam Veterans Association, Plains American Legion, Joseph E. Conlon Pot 558 , Life member of the Disabled American Veterans, Masonic Lodge #61 in Wilkes-Barre, Bloomsburg Caldwell Consistory where he was a 32nd Degree Mason, International Association of Firefighters Local #840, where he served 8 years as President and Vice-President, International Association of Fire Chiefs, Pa. State Professional Firefighters Association where he previously served as a Staff Representative, and the Pa. State Arson Investigators Association.

John was a career Firefighter for the Plains Twp. Fire Department for 36 years retiring in April 2011 where he held several positions within the Department before becoming Fire Chief in 2004. He was also employed part-time by Filippini Bus Lines and Williams Bus lines for 32 years.

He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, the former Karen Brunn, two sons, John H. Baranski III and his wife Michelle, Larksville; Brian Baranski and his wife Heather, Kingston Twp., grandsons, Christopher, Nathan, Gavin and Mason Baranski; niece Cindy (Saba) Bleiler and nephew Jeffrey Panzak.

He was extremely proud of his sons and grandsons and followed their sporting events faithfully.

Funeral service will be held Friday at 10:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, Pa. with Deacon Donald Crane, officiating. Interment will be in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hanover Twp.

Family and friends may call Thursday from 4pm to 7pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations, if desired, may be made to any Veterans Organization of your choice.