Henry P. Baresh

Henry P. “Hank” Baresh, of Scappoose died on March 3, 2013 at his home. He was 95 years old. Hank was born to Frank and Frances (Pisan) Baresh on March 28, 1917 in Chelsea, Iowa. In 1936 he moved with his family across the country to Scio, Oregon and then in 1939 they moved to Scappoose to join the larger Czechoslovakian community. There he and his family attended St. Wenceslaus Parish where he remained a member until his death. Soon after moving to Scappoose at the age of 26 he was inducted into the U.S.Army. He received his training at Fort Lewis, Washington and shipped out from New York to Marseilles, France where he pushed through to Germany. While crossing the Rhine River he heard that the war in Europe was declared over. During his service he earned numerous awards including the Bronze Star. Following his discharge in 1946 he returned to Scappoose, and he knew he wouldn’t be content being a farmer. He got a job in St. Helens at Firtex and after a strike threatened to close the plant he knew he needed to find something more stable. So he started machinist school and soon after completion he got a job at Yancey Tool and Machine in Portland. He was employed there for over 35 years. In September of 1969 Henry married Mary Jane Ford at St. Wenceslaus Parish. They continued their life together in Scappoose, raising her two daughters as his own. Henry took great pride in his family and his Czechoslovakian heritage. He stayed in touch with family member near and far. The Baresh siblings were well known for their parties and get togethers. After Henry’s retirement in 1988 is when his passion for hobbies really kicked in. He spent most of his days outside or in the garage working with his hands. A few of his numerous activities include, but are not limited to; gardening, feeding the birds, cooking, painting in oils and water colors, making stained glass, reading and going out to eat. He was constantly building or repairing things big and small. Whatever needed to be fixed Henry accomplished. Henry was preceded in death by 5 of his sisters and 3 brothers. Also by his wife Mary Jane in October of 2011 and his oldest daughter Cathy Stephens in February of 2013. He is survived by sister Pearl Harper, brothers; Alfonse and Joseph Baresh and his wife Mary. Daughter Liz Cupp, Dave Cupp son- in-law. Grandchildren Morgin Cupp, Miranda Thomas and Cherie Broadway. Also by numerous nieces, nephews and great grandchildren. Recitation of the Holy Rosary will be held Monday March 18, 2013 at 12:30 p.m. with a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at 1:00 p.m. at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Scappoose. Vault interment will follow at St. Wenceslaus Cemetery. Following the graveside services a reception will be held at the Parish Hall. Contributions may be made in his memory to the Columbia Humane Society at 2084 Oregon St. St. Helens, Oregon 97051. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.columbiafh.com. Arrangements are under the direction of the Columbia Funeral Home.

Henry P. Baresh

March 28, 1917 - March 3, 2013