Brian J. Budzak

Brian J. Budzak, age 46 of Old Forge, passed away Saturday evening at home surrounded by his loving family. He leaves behind his wife of twenty years and the love of his life, Margie Williams Budzak, along with his two adoring daughters, Briannan and Emily. Born in Scranton on December 8, 1966, son of John Budzak of Beaumont and Rose Mary Cappellini Chapasko of Taylor, Brian was a graduate of Old Forge High School, Class of 1984. After attending Wilkes University, he began a career as a carpenter. A member of the Carpenter's Local 645, he worked as a project manager for Pace Construction. Active amongst the community and an avid sports fan, Brian spent ten years as a Coach for the Triboro Soccer League before becoming the Assistant Coach for the Old Forge High School Varsity Soccer Team. He was also a coach for the Missy League of Old Forge Softball. He also enjoyed hunting and loved golfing. Brian's illness drew support from the entire community. As a testament to his loving and caring nature, numerous benefits were organized on his behalf. His mantra was "losing is not an option" and though despite his passing, he leaves behind a lasting legacy to all of his family and dear friends whose lives he's touched. He'll be remembered forever. He is also survived by his sisters, Charise O'Konski and husband Bill of Avoca, and Erin Chapasko of Taylor; his brothers, Michael Budzak and Michael Meyers, both of Noxen; his maternal grandfather, Nick Cappellini of Old Forge; his paternal grandmother, Helen Budzak of Pittston; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Brian was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother Ruth Cappellini, and his paternal grandfather John Budzak and step-mother Roberta Budzak. His family cannot express enough gratitude to the Old Forge community for their amazing support throughout Brian's illness. They'd also like to especially thank the 6th floor staff, east and west wings, at Geisinger Hospital; the physical therapy and E wings of Golden Living Center in Wilkes Barre; Dr. Martin Hyzinski and the staff of Hematology and Oncology of Scranton; Dr. Christopher Peters and the staff of NROC in Dunmore, and Sandy and the staff of Celtic Hospice. A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for Thursday at 10:00AM at St. Mary of the Assumption Church, Prince of Peace Parish, in Old Forge, to be celebrated by Rev. August A. Ricciardi, Pastor. Those attending the funeral are asked to go directly to the church. Relatives and friends may pay their respects on Wednesday from 4:00-8:00PM at the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 517 North Main Street, Old Forge. As per Brian's personal request, all attending his services are asked to not wear the color red in his honor. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Brian's name to the Old Forge High School Soccer Program, 300 Marion Street, Old Forge, 18518.