Joseph J. Baran

Joseph J. Baran, 71, of Whiting, passed away peacefully on the early morning of Wednesday, May 28, 2025 following a short battle with cancer, at his residence. He is survived by his beloved wife,  Kathy (nee Hill); loving dad (papa) to Randall (Jen Helton) Holland and Katie (David) Funk; adoring papa of Natalee, Charlie, Sean and Kathryn Holland, Sophie, Davie and Vivi Funk; cherished brother of David (Debra Timko) Baran and the late Edward (Nancy) Baran, Jr.; proud uncle/Godfather of Michael (Michelle) Baran; dear great uncle to Hailey and Tyler Baran; special friend of Tom Rogina and Rich Taylor who both checked in on him regularly during his illness.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at 11:30am at the Baran Funeral Home, 1235-119th St., Whiting, IN, with Pastor Paul Vale of the New Life Christian Church, Whiting, officiating; interment to follow at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens, Crown Point; visitation at the funeral home on Monday from 4:00 to 8:00p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be shared online at www.baranfh.com. 

Joseph Baran was born on October 25, 1953 to Edward and Gabriella (Masura) Baran. A lifelong resident of the Whiting-Robertsdale Community, he attended St. John the Baptist School and was a graduate of George Rogers Clark High School, Class of 1972. Joe loved working on cars, playing billiards and listening to his favorite rock bands. He was an amazing wood worker and handyman who was always doing something for his family. He was one of the founders of the Whiting Car Shows held in Whiting Park and had helped with the March of Dimes Car Shows.  Joe won the “Brothers of the Brush” contest in 1989 during Whiting’s Centennial Celebration. He and his brother, David were the co-owners of the former Whiting Auto Parts Store and was a member of the New Life Christian Church, Whiting, where he loved to attend. In 2000, he went to work for the School City of Whiting where he met the love of his life, Kathy, whom he married on July 19, 2003. Together they made a great team for 22 years. Joseph retired from Regional Mental Health in 2022 with a service of 13 years. He loved picking up “his girl” for lunch and spending time with Kathy and their family. He was a kind and gentle soul who will be missed dearly by his family and friends. He is now at peace, resting with his Savior. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the family or the New Life Christian Church, Whiting, would be appreciated. 

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