Message from Cindy Barron

I'm so sorry to learn of Dr B's passing. Our deepest condolences to Melane & family. He was always such a kind, gentle soul. He obviously impacted many lives through his years of teaching, coaching & as a Superintendent. I was privileged to work for him if only briefly before he retired. He was always so kind & took a sincere interest in everyone's life. He was a blessing. May God give you strength Melane & keep your memories close to your heart & keep Dr. B in his loving arms.

Message from Gary and Eileen Singel

There are no words or phrases that can adequately convey our most sincere sympathy for your loss. It seems unfair that John was taken so soon, but apparently his purpose in life had been fulfilled and he was called home. We are certain that he is resting in peace and enjoying the comforts of home. We will keep John and you in our thoughts and prayers.

Message from Duffy Floyd

Mrs. Baraniak,
I was very sorry to read of Dr. Baraniak's passing. My sympathies to you and your family. I never had the pleasure of meeting you as I left Somerset in 1980 to join the Navy. Dr. Baraniak was my Jr. High School Wrestling Coach. The greatest gift and life lesson he gave and taught me was his belief in me and my abilities on the wrestling mat taught me to believe in myself. Over the 46 years since he was my coach, that gift and life lesson has been instrumental in many of the accomplishments of my life. I have often thought of Dr. Baraniak over the years and did have the pleasure of speaking to him by phone a few years ago as well as stopping by and seeing him at the Sr. High School. I will miss him as a living part of my life but still have his memory to guide me.

Message from Robert J Theiss

Melane, so sorry to hear of your loss.

Message from Bob + Carole Theiss

Melanie. We are so very sorry to see John passed away. Sending condolences to you and your families.


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Message from Aiken, SC

Remembering Mr. Baraniak fondly and sorry to hear of his passing. I was lucky enough to be in his first class at Somerset Jr High. He was a wonderful teacher, an inspiration and a true gentleman's gentle man. CY

Message from Duane Wong

Dr. Baraniak was one of my favorite educators from Somerset Area School District.

He always had a calm demeanor, and I would credit his guidance in so far as eventually my earning an MBA degree from The University of Pittsburgh in 1996.

He said that he thought I could achieve this when I was in Junior High School and he predicted it.

I remember his wife Melane as well. Altjough I never took a class from her, I could sense that John and she were a great match.

I offer my condolences to the entire Baraniak family, and wish them well.

Duane Wong

A candle was lit by Duane Wong on September 16, 2017 2:27 PM

Message from Edgar R Flick

He was a great man, friend and mentor to me. As a young man, his kindness, encouragement and faith in me effected me in very positive ways that I have tried to instill in my children and the youth I have mentored over the years. I will never forget this man. God bless you sir!

A candle was lit by Edgar R. Flick and family on September 16, 2017 8:42 AM

Message from Graham, NC

Dear Mrs. B and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Dr. B encouraged me and believed in me at a time in my life when I didn't even have confidence in my self. He was my favorite teacher, a wonderful mentor and friend to me during my school years. I will always be grateful for the life long lessons he taught me. Heaven has gained a wonderful angel yesterday and I am proud to have known him. My thoughts, love, and prayers are with you all.

Message from James Heiple Lighthouse Point Florida

So very sorry for the loss of this great educator and person . He was a "Gentleman's Gentleman. He was highly respected by all the students especially me. This man did not deserve to suffer with the most terrible cancer there is!!!! But im sure he did it with the most dignaty. John never had one trace of any arrogance or selfishness found often today. John would always go out of his way to say hello to me walking down the halls of school and he always made you feel special and his words were always kind and reassuring. I wish I had better words to describe this great person. God broke the mold when he made John. Rest in peace. One of Somersets last great role models Gone but never forgotten

Message from Jeannette & Jim Mayak

Dearest Melane, Bernadette, Tom, and family,
Our hearts ache for the loss of your beloved John. He was such an exemplary person, always kind, thoughtful, and professional. He was a true gentleman with many gifts. He touched many lives in such positive ways, and we are fortunate to have known him, from our hometown roots, as a family friend, and professionally at Somerset Schools. May God be with you and give you strength now and in the difficult days ahead. Do find comfort knowing he is a saint in Heaven and will be watching over you always.

Message from Curt and Marty Kerns

Please accept our sincere sympathy on the loss of John. I met John early in our teaching careers as Junior High wrestling coaches and we ended our careers together as superintendents. He was ever the gentleman, kind, caring, helpful and dedicated to his family and the students of his district. He will be missed.

A candle was lit by Lisa Oakes on September 15, 2017 5:24 PM

Message from Lisa Baker Oakes

I always enjoyed Mr Baraniak in school he was definitely a great guy loved him and his wife dearly so sorry for your loss Mrs. Baraniak

Message from Linda Wright

Melane, so sorry to hear of the passing of your husband John. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Linda Wright

Message from Interim Healthcare

My condolences on your loss at this difficult time. We are so blessed to have met Melane and John on this journey. Thank you for letting us help you in your time of need.

A candle was lit by Interim Healthcare on September 15, 2017 4:55 PM

A candle was lit by Joyce Friedline on September 15, 2017 4:45 PM

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Melane,
My heart goes out to you my friend at this difficult time. I know John was the love of your life he of yours. I miss the years since your retirement and our closeness. Heaven got a great angel yesterday. John (Dr. B ) was a very special boss and friend. I am proud to have worked for him and even prouder to have golfed together and to call him a friend. I know he is at peace now and not suffering any longer.
Stay strong because that is what he would want you to do.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love
Joyce