Jacob "Jack" Baraban Obituary (1919 - 2012)

Jacob “Jack” Baraban, 92, of Overland Park, KS, passed away Saturday, January 14, 2012 at The Atriums. Funeral services will be at 2:00pm Wednesday, January 18, 2012 at The Louis Memorial Chapel, 6830 Troost Avenue, Kansas City, MO 64131 with burial to follow at Kehilath Israel Blue Ridge Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Ohev Sholom Synagogue, Wayside Waifs or a charity of one’s choice. A lifelong area resident, Jack was born in Kansas City, MO to Joe and Lena (Litman) Baraban. He graduated from Central High School and attended the University of Illinois. He enlisted in the Marine Corp to serve in WWII and the Korean Conflict. During his service in WWII, he received a medal for saving a fellow soldier’s life when their ship, the USS Chicago, was torpedoed twice. Jack served with distinction, attaining the rank of Captain. After WWII, he returned to Kansas City and co-founded Lady Baltimore Foods with his aunt and uncle, Esther and Ben Cosner, in 1946. Jack was a longtime member of both Ohev Sholom and Kehilath Israel Synagogues. He was blessed with a loving 53 year marriage to his first wife, Sara. They had three sons and were married until Sara’s passing in 1997. Jack then met his second wife, Dorothy, and they were married from 1998 until her death in January, 2010. He was preceded in death by his older brother, Hymie Baraban. Jack is survived by his sons and daughters-in-law: Jeffrey Baraban, Walnut, CA; Dr. Marc and Linda Baraban , Topeka, KS; Bruce and Carolyn Baraban, Leawood, KS; brother and sister-in-law: Marvin and Phyllis Denton, Overland Park, KS; grandchildren: Alex, Ashlee, Blake and Lauren Baraban and Jessica Jeter. Many nieces and nephews also survive. Jack was a hardworking, well respected generous family and businessman with a heart of gold. He had a great zest for life that was demonstrated by trips to the casinos, dining out, and extensive travel. In his later years, he became an avid Chiefs and Royals fan. The family would like to thank Continua Hospice, Lucille Tutera and her entire staff at The Atrium’s and his two caregivers, Mary and Faith. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.