Edward John Banaszak, Sr, age 84, of Battle Creek, MI departed this world surrounded by his family on November 12, 2010, at the Good Samaritan Hospice House. He was born in Ironwood, MI, the son of John and Mary (Jozwiak) Banaszak who immigrated to the USA from Poland in the 1920’s. He is survived by his wife of 50 years Alice (Conlin); son, Edward Banaszak, Jr. (Marilyn), stepchildren Mike (Hill), and Linda (Brust), a brother, John, and sisters Stephanie (Miller), JoAnn (Gibson) and Pat (Adamson). He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Walter, sisters Irene, Marion, MaryLou and stepdaughter, Diana (Williams). As a child he helped provide for his family by delivering newspapers to the soldiers at Fort Custer and enlisted in the US Navy in 1944, serving on the USS Bush. He survived the sinking of his ship and was honorably discharged in 1946 receiving the American Area Campaign Metal, Atlantic Pacific Area Campaign Metal-4 Stars, WWII Victory Metal, and the Philippine Liberation Metal – 2 Stars. Ed was employed by Weston Biscuit Co., Hoshes Grill and worked at the Kellogg Company from 1947–1988. He was a member of the American Legion Post 298, VFW and PNA. Ed loved his family and enjoyed the many family vacations to the U.P. and Florida and the many family gatherings. In his younger years he enjoyed fishing and hunting before settling into his real passion of cooking. He was proud of his Polish heritage and would occasionally sing polish songs while cooking his favorite polish dishes. Wednesday, November 17, 2010, a Rosary will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church at 11:30 am, followed by a Catholic Mass at 12:00 pm. After the services, a processional conducted by Baxter Funeral Home will be lead to the Fort Custer National Cemetery for an honorary service followed by a remembrance luncheon at the American Legion Post 298, (N. 20th Street) at approx. 2:30 p.m. Memorial contributions can be made to the Banaszak family c/o Baxter Funeral Service.