Bernard (Barney) M. Lazewski

Bernard (Barney) M. Lazewski, age 89, died June 29, 2011, finally succumbing to one of the six cancers he endured throughout his life.He was born on Aug. 14, 1921 to Agatha (Lemke) and Anton Lazewski in the family home. Barney attended St. Hyacinth parochial school and graduated from Antigo High School with the class of 1939.Barney had a strong work ethic and worked for most of his life. He was employed by Hovey Garage, Malony Gas Station, and Weinbrenner Shoe Company factory, all of Antigo.In 1941 he entered the United States Air Force Pilot Training Program, then went into aerial gunnery school.In Harlingen, Texas he was assigned to a bomber crew as flight engineer/top turret gunner.Barney served in the China Burma India theatre with the Flying Tigers 308th bomb group 375th squadron and received the very heavy bombardment award and Asia theatre medal/air medal and the distinguished flying cross for missions flown. He was also awarded the Chinese Air Medal from Madame Chiang Kai-Shek.Barney married Doris Marx on Dec. 4, 1944 during the war. He was employed in sales locally and went on to the district sales manager position with Morley Murphy of Green Bay, then district sales manager with Hupp Corp-White Consolidated-Schwank LTD of Cologne, West Germany.He proudly served as a member of the Langlade County Board and on its Airport Committee. He owned Barney's Tree Service and was a successful landlord for decades.Barney was a loyal member of St. Hyacinth Parish his entire life and faithfully attended Mass every Sunday.Predeceased by his parents, Anton and Agatha (nee Lemke) Lazewski, wife, Doris, of 62 years and son, Tony, 62 years of age.He is survived by his granddaughters, Laura and Lisa Lazewski and daughter-in-law, Barbara Lazewski, all of Madison.A funeral Mass will be held Friday at 11 a.m. at SS Mary and Hyacinth Catholic Church, Rev. Roger Strebel will officiate. Visitation will be 10:30 until the time of services at the church.Memorial funds may be donated to the Never Forgotten Honor Flight in Barney's name.