Bashkim Brakaj

Bashkim is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Dashamira Brakaj; his children Silvana (Artan) Kristo, Xhevair (Marsela) Brakaj, Rrapo Brakaj and Nertila (Ilir) Hormova; his grandchildren, Angela, Klendi, Alessia, Daniel, Luca and Elena; brother Petrit (Tariko) Brakaj, and sisters Haxhire (Enver) Beqiraj, Flleza (Agim) Dalipaj and Violeta (Hamza) Malaj. He was preceded in death by his parents, Faik and Nurisha Brakaj and sister Kushulla (Telo) Mucaj.

Bashkim was born and raised in Albania and was the oldest of six children. He immigrated to the U.S. in 1996 and was a pillar of the Albanian community in Columbus. He worked at Anthony Thomas Chocolates for 20 years. He was a man with a big heart and open arms, helping many in the Albanian community. Bashkim loved gatherings with his family and friends for any occasion. He was a pillar of the family and a trusted advisor, centering his life around ensuring the success of his family, helping others and creating strong relationships and friendships. Bashkim was always gracious and would go above and beyond to show appreciation to all of those around him. He was proud of his children and grandchildren and used any opportunity to talk about them and how much he loved them. He loved spending time with all his grandchildren and had a nickname for each of them, which we will always cherish. In his retirement, he enjoyed going to the Amish farms and catching up with friends over a cup of coffee. Above all else, Bashkim was endlessly dedicated to his family and was a loving husband, father, and grandfather.

A visitation for Bashkim will be held Tuesday, June 3, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Schoedinger Northwest, 1740 Zollinger Road, Columbus, OH 43221. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at 1:00 PM, 1740 Zollinger Road, Columbus, OH 43221, followed by a burial at Union Cemetery, 3349 Olentangy River Rd, Columbus, OH 43202.

For those wishing to send flowers, please contact Rees flowers at 614-475-5726 or visit https://www.reesflowersandgifts.com/

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