Kazimierz A. Banas

Kazimierz A. Banas, 85, of Forest Street, Lehighton, Franklin Township, PA, formerly of Wallington, Bergen County, NJ, died peacefully early Wednesday morning, July 30, 2025, at his home. He was the beloved husband of Mrs. Zofia (Miazga) Banas, to whom he was married for 66 years on July 4, 1959. Born in Wola Zarczycka, Poland, Kazimierz was the son of the late Wladyslaw and Jozefa Szwed Banas. His childhood was marked by resilience and responsibility, at the young age of 13, Kazimierz took over the family's general store following the untimely death of his father. This early experience shaped his work ethic and determination that would guide him throughout his life. In 1970, while on vacation in the US, Kazimierz fell in love with the country and made a vow to return permanently with his entire family. Over the next six years, he worked tirelessly to navigate the complex systems that would allow his family to leave Poland. His dream came true in 1976, when on June 13th, Kazimierz, his wife Zofia, and their three children became one of the few families to leave Poland that year. This marked a defining moment in their lives. Upon arriving in the US, Kazimierz and his family settled in Wallington, NJ, where Kazimierz became the proud owner and operator of Banas Bakery, retiring in 1998. Known for his craftsmanship as a baker and his unwavering dedication to his business, Kazimierz built a legacy that impacted not just his family, but his community as well. He was a devout member of Most Sacred Heart of Jesus RC Church. In 1992, he was honored to serve as the Grand Marshal of the Pulaski Day Parade in recognition of his contributions to the Polish-American community. In 1989 Kaz and Zofia built their dream home and moved to Lehighton. They promptly planted numerous trees along the property line and created beautiful gardens in their front and back yards. Kaz was an avid gardener and enjoyed the fruits of his labor year after year. Kazimierz was also talented handyman who could repair just about anything. His skills and love for working with his hands were matched only by his love for his family and his commitment to providing a better life for them. Whether it was tending to his garden or helping others with a repair, Kaz's generous spirit shone through in everything he did. Survivors: In addition to his wife, Zofia, Kazimierz is survived by his daughters, Aleksandra (wife of William Turner) of Crawfordville, FL, and Malgorzata (wife of Sean Cleerdin) of St. Johns County, FL; his son, Zenon T. (husband of Grazyna) of Newark, DE; and five cherished grandchildren: Michael, Kelly, Karina, Julia, and April. He is also survived by his sister, Zofia Perlak of Westwood, NJ, his brother, Tadeusz Banas of Lezajsk, Poland, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, Jan. Visitation: 10-11:00AM Friday at Saints Peter and Paul Church, 260 N. 3rd Street, Lehighton, PA 18235. Church Services: Mass of Christian Burial, 11:00AM. Interment, 2:00PM at The National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa Cemetery, Doylestown, New Britian Township, Bucks County. Arrangements, Miller Funeral Home, Lehighton. Online Condolences: www.schislerfuneralhomes.com. The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude for all the love and support received during this time.