Edward J. Bozek

BOZEK, Edward J. - May 9, 2015 of Buffalo, NY; beloved husband of the late Rose (nee Sosin); loving father of Edward A. (Betty), Barbara (Richard) Cracchiolo and Daniel (Sandra); cherished grandfather of Amy (Deric), Julie (John), Robin (Dave), Leigh Anne, Joseph and Kristin; dear great-grandfather of Lauren, Jessica, Andrew, Kaitlyn, Owen, Jordyn and Julia Rose; also survived by other family members and friends. A funeral service will commence on Thursday at 9:30AM at the DANIEL R. SMOLAREK FUNERAL HOME, 2047 Broadway, Village of Sloan. Interment St. Stanislaus Cemetery. The family will be present to receive relatives and friends Wednesday from 4-8PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo. Leave condolences, share memories and view Edward's life story at SmolarekCares.com. Edward J. BOZEK, WWII Veteran, Legion of Honor Medal award recipient and WNY Softball Hall of Fame Member died Saturday at the age of 94. Born in Buffalo, NY, he spent his childhood as a devoted son to his ailing mother and was a loving brother to five siblings. In September of 1943 he was married to the love of his life, Rose. The day after his marriage, he was given orders to ship out for overseas duty. He said, "I was so young and scared like everyone else." But his commitment to his country and fellow man was far greater and he faced his fears head-on in the Battle of the Bulge and Normandy. His bravery was acknowledged by receiving the Silver Star as well as being named "Chevalier" of the Legion of Honor. The Legion of Honor medal is given by the French government, the highest honor for WWII vets. This honor was created by Napoleon in 1802 to acknowledge services rendered to France by persons of great merit. His award letter from the French Ambassador reads, "This award testifies to President Sarkozy's high esteem for your merits and accomplishments. In particular, it is a sign of France's true and unforgettable gratitude and appreciation for your personal, precious contribution the United States decisive role in the liberation of our country during World War II. The French people will never forget your courage and your devotion to the great cause of freedom." Mr. Bozek was also an avid baseball player. He is a member of the Western New York Softball Hall of Fame. he could have had an opportunity to play for the major leagues, but he decided not to pursue a life that would have taken him away from what he deemed much more important, his family. He was a devoted husband, father and friend to anyone who came across his warm, gentle handshake and smile. When he played his favorite song, "You are my Sunshine" on his harmonica he really meant it. Survivors include two sons, Edward and Daniel and a daughter Barbara. Also, six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

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Edward J. Bozek

June 13, 1920 - May 9, 2015