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 20 years and the love of his life, Margie Williams Budzak, along with his two adoring daughters, Briannon and Emily.

Born in Scranton on Dec. 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 Carpenters Local 645, he worked as a project manager for Pace Construction.

Active in the community and an avid sports fan, Brian spent 10 years as a coach for the Triboro Soccer League before becoming the Assistant Coach for Old Forge High School Varsity Soccer Team. He was also a coach for the Miss-E League of Old Forge Softball. He also enjoyed hunting and loved golfing.

Brian's illness drew support from the entire community. A testament to his loving and caring nature, numerous benefits were organized on his behalf. His mantra was "losing is not an option," and despite his passing, he leaves behind a lasting legacy to all 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 grandather, Nick Cappellini of Old Forge; his paternal grandmother, Helen Budzak of Pittston; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

His family cannot express enough gratitude to the Old Forge community for its amazing support throughout Brian's illness. They'd also like to especially thank the sixth-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; and Dr. Christopher Peters and the staff of NROC in Dunmore.

A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for Thursday at 10 a.m. at St. Mary's Assumption Church, Prince of Peace Parish, Old Forge, to be celebrated by Rev. August A. Ricciardi, pastor. Those attending the funeral are asked to go directly to the church. As per Brian's personal request, all attending his services are asked to not wear the color red in his honor.

Relatives and friends may pay their respects Wednesday from 4-8 p.m. at the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home Inc., 517 N. Main St., Old Forge.

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. Please visit www.Kear neyFuneralHome.com for directions or to leave an online condolence.