Submitted Photo A long line of vehicles paraded by Joanna Banach’s home to celebrate her 90th birthday.

Special to the OBSERVER

Many residents of the Dunkirk Fredonia community gathered on Thursday, May 14 at 6:30 p.m. on Beach Road, Dunkirk to line up for a 90th Birthday drive by for Mrs. John (Joanna) Banach.

Mrs. Banach, a retired Dunkirk School District teacher has been actively involved in our community for many years. Brooks Memorial Hospital and the Auxiliary has been a significant benefactor of Mrs. Banach’s volunteer efforts. “I have been CEO at a number of different hospitals and I never met a more dedicated volunteer than Joanna Banach,” said Richard Ketcham retired CEO from Brooks Memorial Hospital. “Joanna never looked for the limelight but she was always present to help out in so many important ways. It was always a comfort to know that Joanna would be there because we knew the job would be done right. The other thing that is amazing to me is that Joanna was also an active volunteer for many other organizations. She is truly a community treasure.”

Rick Johnson, former BMH Board Chair reflected, “Joanna demonstrated the unique profile of a perfect volunteer. She was there for us as a fundraiser with a positive attitude and a willingness to take charge. She understood the importance of the institution to our community and has been an inspiration to so many of us then and for years to come.”

Joanna’s son, Dr. David Banach stated the following, “Under any normal circumstances, a 90th birthday for Mom would have been a large family event and we just wanted to do something within limits in these trying times to be social but socially distant to honor my Mother. We are thankful for all the family, friends and neighbors from her years as a teacher, a Brooks Auxiliary Member and from her bridge club who braved the pouring rain to surprise the “Matriarch of the Haase family” on her special day. It MADE her day.”

Submitted Photo Joanna Banach is 90 years young.

In light of these uncertain times, it is wonderful to stop and appreciate the many community members who have made a significant difference and recognize the value their volunteer efforts, many times with no anticipation of thanks, the Dunkirk Fredonia community says thank you Joanna!