Frederick Budnar, 96, of St. Clair passed away peacefully Tuesday October 10th, at Seton Manor, Orwigsburg.

Fred was born in St. Clair, on February 13, 1927, a son of the late Mary (Sutzko) and Peter Martin Budnar.

He was predeceased by his lifelong companion, of over 60 years, Mary "Mae" Kaminsky in 2013.

Fred had an enormous heart and wonderful sense of humor.  He was kind, generous, loyal and caring.  He was clever and full to the brim with knowledge gained through all of his life experiences that he often shared.  He will be missed dearly.

He was a member of St. Michael Orthodox Church, St Clair and graduated from St. Clair High School, then went on to serve in the US Army to defend his country during WWII. He went on to work as a Union Representative for United Metal Pottsville until retirement.

Fred loved his church, and held many positions. His other joys in life include gardening, traveling and being an advid sports fan of the Phillies & Eagles. Although Fred never held a drivers license he would travel frequently by organizing many Casino bus trips to Atlantic City and the Miss America Pageants, New York City Broadway shows and sports games. Fred also was known to have tended Bar at Kaminsky's Tavern. He was an exceptional baseball player and almost went pro. He went by the nickname "Lefty" and was the team catcher.  He often told his family how he enjoyed playing ball in Nuremberg Germany, while in the Army.

Fred is survived by his nieces & his nephew who also aided him as his caregivers, They are Lisa Hill, companion of Robert Fanok and Susan Neilson, wife of William, and  Rev. Father Tim Hasenecz.

Also surviving is his sister, Elizabeth Budnar, widow of  Alex Hasenecz and sister In law Vera Bumbak, Widow of Andrew.

He is also survived by many other nieces, nephews, great nieces & nephews and cousins.

Fred was preceded in death by eight siblings Peter Budnar; Helen Budnar Paulin; Mary Bumbak Keysock (William); Theresa Bumbak Roberts (William); Andrew Bumbak; Anka Bumbak Kundrack (Michael); Margaret Bumbak Laskus (Anthony), and John Bodnar (Diane).

A Religious Service will be held at 10:00 AM at St. Michael The Archangel Orthodox Church  in Saint Clair on Thursday October 19th. The viewing will be from 9:00 AM until the service begins.
Interment, with Military Honors, will be at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery Annville at 1:30 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Michael Church, 106 North Morris St., St. Clair 17970.  Hamilton-Breiner Funeral Home, Inc. Orwigsburg is honored to be serving the family