Danuta Bak

Danuta Bak, 90, passed away peacefully on October 15th, 2026, leaving a legacy of strength, resilience, and devotion to her family.

Born on July 15, 1936, in Dalidowicze, Poland, Danuta was separated from her immediate family during World War II. Despite the hardships of her early years, she eventually relocated to Bydgoszcz, Poland, where she met and married Marion Bak. Together, they began their family and welcomed their sons, Thomas and Christopher.

In the summer of 1965, Danuta and her family immigrated to the United States and settled in Elizabeth, New Jersey. There, with assistance from the American Red Cross, she was reunited with her immediate family after 22 years apart. This long-awaited reunion was a deeply meaningful moment, bringing Danuta back together with the loved ones from whom she had been separated for so many years.

Danuta later lived in Edison and Manahawkin, New Jersey, and Wilmington, North Carolina, before returning to Galloway, New Jersey.

She worked as a machine operator for Merck and retired after 22 years of dedicated service. In her free time, she enjoyed cooking for her family, traveling, gardening, shopping, and taking trips to Atlantic City.

Her beloved husband, Marion, passed away on August 2, 1970.

Danuta never remarried, choosing instead to devote herself to her children, her family, and the life they shared.

Danuta is survived by her sons, Thomas Bak and Chris Bak (Selvie); her three grandchildren, Andrew Bak (Rebecca), Leeann Bak (Julia), and Alex Bak; her great-grandson Desmond; her sisters, Josephine Rudnicki, Agnes Plotkin, Terri Schiffman, and Lily Reiman; her brother, John Bohdan; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Aleksandra and Boleslaw Bohdan; her beloved husband, Marion Bak; her sister, Mary Kaziewicz; and her brother, George Bohdan.

Danuta will be remembered for her perseverance, love of family, and remarkable journey through war, separation, immigration, and reunion. Her life reflected the enduring strength of family and the hope that carried her through difficult times.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved her.

A memorial service will be offered on Friday, October 30, 2026, at Thomas L. Shinn Funeral Home, 10 Hilliard Drive, Manahawkin, New Jersey, beginning at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Red Cross. www.redcross.org

To leave online condolences and fond memories for the family, please visit www.shinnfuneralhome.com