Ronald J. Bajorek, formerly of York, PA, passed away on August 10, 2026 at the age of 77. He was the son of Stanley and Agnes Bajorek (McBride).

Ron was one of those people who could make you laugh, usually when you least expected it. He had a great sense of humor, a love for adventure, and plenty of stories to tell (some of which probably should be left untold!). He loved to travel and experience life – he even tried scuba diving and was a golfer. He was a true sports fan, especially when it came to the Chicago Bears and Penn State football. His love for baseball was something special as well (even though he would always comment about it being boring). He was once invited to try out for the Chicago White Sox but instead, he chose to go out with his buddies.

He worked for Anphenol/Bunco Ramo in the Chicago area and was transferred to PA. He also worked for the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections.

His life took him down some difficult roads along with some wonderful ones. He grew up in Angel Guardian Orphanage in Chicago, IL with his best friend for life, Norm Mertel. He and Norm joined the US Army and he served in the 4th Infantry Division in Pleiku, Vietnam in 1968. His service was something that would always remain an important part of his story, although he rarely talked about it. Norm remained his best friend for his entire life – Ron even lived with Norm and his wife, Heidi when they were first married.

He also knew deep loss. His daughter, Lauren N. Bajorek tragically passed away in 2015. His wife Carey Masschelin Bajorek died in 2019 and he was also preceded in death by his parents as well as his siblings: Stanley Bajorek, John Wayne Bajorek, Carol Edwards and Patricia Wasil.

He is survived by his four nieces: Jaime Suderman Franklin (Stephen), Cherryll Bajorek White (Scott), Robyn Wasil Basso (Ryan McElroy), Tina Bajorek Hernandez (John) and his dear cousin Barbara Holan.

In his later years, as dementia began to make some things harder for him to remember, his former neighbor and friend, Joan D’Elia, was there to help him. Joan had a special way of helping him find his way through the confusion. She would remind him of the people who loved him and especially help him remember his family and friends.

His later years required him to be cared for at Arden Courts at Susquehanna – He also received care from Ennoble Care Hospice. The family is grateful for the compassionate care he received.

Ron will be laid to rest with Carey and Lauren at a later date. In lieu of flowers, friends and family are encouraged to support The Lauren Bajorek Memorial Scholarship Fund at the York County Community Foundation 14 W. Market St. York PA 17401 or the Lauren Bajorek Music Fund at ACCF 25 South 4th Street Gettysburg, PA 17325