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- Obituary for James R. Urbaniak
James R. Urbaniak 1951-2022
James Robert Urbaniak, professional carpenter, accomplished musician, foodie, and lover of horticulture, died peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, April 16th. He was 70.
Known to most as Jimmy, he was born to the late Florian and Dolores (Rusin) in 1951. The eldest of five children, he is survived by his sons Randy and Jeremy: siblings Tom (Sherry), Larry (Toyia), Pat (Dave) Przywara, and Joe (Heidi Fischer); sister-in-law Kerri; nieces, nephews, and cousins from near and far; his family from the Third Warder’s Social Club; and many friends, young and old, from every walk of life.
Jimmy was a professional carpenter and woodworker. He loved his craft and over the years received many accolades for his work. You would be hard pressed to visit the homes of his family and friends and not see his handy work and beautiful creations.
After retirement from his carpentry career, Jimmy found great joy in preparing gourmet meals for his friends. The same consideration and attention to detail from his woodworking days was channeled into his love of food. He became quite the chef; proof that anything done out of love always reigns.
If you couldn’t find Jimmy in the kitchen, you’d find him at the Third Warder’s sipping on “pops” and enjoying the company at his second home. His membership extended several decades, and he became a warm and inviting fixture for all who entered.
He was also a skilled musician, playing the electric bass for local band Fossil Rock and his new venture, Brooklyn Roads. A founding member of Fossil Rock, the band had an extensive following and entertained the masses for many years, acquiring a respectable number of groupies.
Some of Jimmy’s favorite people included his life-long friends from high school, better known as the “69ers” (NTHS Class of ’69). He forged relationships that lasted 60+ years and cherished every moment with every friend. His gang will forever treasure his devotion, compassion, and intelligence.
Most dear to Jimmy’s heart was being a school Bus Aide for autistic kids. He was a patient and loving force in their lives and the lives of their families – attributes that came naturally to him. He raved about “his kids” constantly…. and to whomever would listen. They were his pride and joy, and he dedicated much of his love and energy to Autism awareness. He will be sorely missed for his warmth, humor, and constant optimism.
Jimmy’s love of music, work, family, and friends was the essence of his life. He brought an unmatched light to this world and words cannot describe how deeply he will be missed by all those who knew and loved him. Even in death, Jimmy found a way to give more through his anatomical donation allowing education of future medical professionals.
Please join us to celebrate Jimmy’s life on Sunday, April 24th from 1pm – 4pm at The Third Warder’s Social Club, 147 12th Avenue in North Tonawanda. The family has requested that remembrances be made in the form of contributions to The Summit Center, 150 Stahl Road, Getzville NY 14068 or by visiting www.thesummitcenter.org/donate/
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1951 - 2022 (71 years)