Fred Baranek, 86, of Allentown, passed away on June 20th, 2021, in the hospital, surrounded by his family. He was the husband of Margaret M. (Kantner) Baranek with whom he shared 65 years of marriage. Born in Allentown, he was the son of Katie (Moncman) and Florian Baranek. He belonged to St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church in Allentown.

He graduated from Allentown High School in 1952, and played minor league baseball with the St. Louis Cardinals organization in 1953. He served in the U.S. Army from 1955-1957. Soon after, he directed youth activities and coached the sports teams of the Boys Club of Allentown, where he helped many boys grow and mature into responsible young men. For 35 years, he was employed by the U.S. Post Office as a mail sorter and a letter carrier. After retiring from the post office, he worked the next ten years for Cathedral Church of St. Catherine of Sienna in Allentown.

Fred loved sports and was an avid Notre Dame fan. He enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren play sports. He coached CYO baseball and basketball for Sacred Heart School in Allentown. He also enjoyed fishing, playing golf, and spending time with all of his family.

Fred was regarded as a very reliable, hard worker. Whenever help was needed, he was always there to provide it, and was known for his "no nonsense" approach.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by daughters Karen Jones and her husband Don of Macungie, and Maria Cawley and her husband Terence of Doylestown, and sons Daniel and his wife Theresa of Cherryville, and Andrew and his wife Susan of Orefield. He is also survived by eight grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. He was predeceased by brothers Alfred and Henry, and sisters Sylvia, Mary, and Ernestine.

Visitation will be from 9:00 to 10:00, Friday, June 25th, at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 1046 W. Cedar Street, Allentown. A funeral mass will be celebrated at 10:00.

Contributions may be made, in Fritz's memory, to the Boys and Girls Club at 720 N. 6th Street, Allentown, PA 18102.