John Thomas Bajorek

November 5, 1944 – June 20, 2022

John Bajorek

John Bajorek, 78, of Kirkland, Washington, died peacefully on the morning of June 20, 2022, following a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease and cancer. John was born on November 5, 1944, in Chicago, Illinois to Joseph Bajorek and Marie Ralczynski. Dad was a proud Vietnam Veteran where he served courageously and was honorably discharged on August 12, 1966. While serving our country, John earned several medals including the Purple Heart.

On May 1, 1971, Dad married the love of his life, Susanlyn (Suzi Olson) Bajorek in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.  John and Suzi moved from Milwaukee, to Chicago, and then to Washington State where they found their forever home. John and Suzi both loved spending time in the Cascade Mountains where they enjoyed camping, snowmobiling, and spending time with family near Lake Wenatchee. Dad was known for watching historical documentaries, reading, and he held a deep love for sports (Go Mariners!).

John worked for Burlington Northern Railway and then spent many years as the transportation manager for Fluke Manufacturing. John initially retired in 1992. However, he then became a school bus driver for the Northshore School District. Dad started this semi-retired position because Mom said his first retirement was driving her crazy. Yet, this semi-retired, bus-driving position became a highlight of his life. He loved working with children of all ages, socio-economic backgrounds, cultures, and unique personalities.

Dad is finally back together with mom. John and Suzi are survived by their children, Kristen (Fa) Fairbank, Kelly (Casey) Hineman, and Joseph (Heidi) Bajorek; their grandchildren, Shiloh, Colton, Dylan, Jonah, Jonas, Victoria, and Jamie. John is also survived by many dearly loved cousins, friends, loving neighbors, and family —-too many to list. John is preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Ray, Dick, and Tom. We hope that they are all fishing, camping, snowmobiling or otherwise engaged in shenanigans on the other side.

In lieu of flowers, Dad requested that donations be made to either: Seattle Children’s Hospital or Evergreen Hospice.

Seattle Children’s Hospital (https://give.seattlechildrens.org/give/284150/#!/donation/checkout)

Evergreen Hospice (https://evergreenhealthfoundation.com/donate/)