Jane Banach, 91, mother of Archbishop Banach

Jane F. (Anisko) Banach, 91, of Auburn, entered eternal life on April 21.  Two days after celebrating her 91st birthday.

Her husband of 57 years, Wallace M. Banach, died in 2017. She is survived by her son, Archbishop Michael W. Banach, Apostolic Nuncio to Hungary, and several nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by a son, David M. Banach, and sisters, Bronia Anisko and Mary V. Brzozowski.

Born in Worcester, youngest daughter of Kostanty and Catherine (Kilik) Anisko, Mrs. Banach graduated from St. Mary’s High School in Worcester. As a recipient of the Bishop Wright Inaugural Scholarship, she attended Anna Maria College in Marlborough and Paxton, obtaining a degree in sociology and education. She was an elementary school teacher for at High Street School in Warren, as a substitute teacher in Auburn public schools and at St. Mary’s Elementary School in Worcester, where, in 1992, she was named to “Who’s Who Among American Teachers.”

 Jane was a life-long member of Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish in Worcester and a member of its Polish Women’s Guild. Mrs. Banach grew up on the “island” and enjoyed sharing stories of her youth with family and friends. A woman of deep faith, her kindness, humility, spark and sense of humor created a welcoming sense to many.

Sentiments of gratitude extend to her nieces, Valerie M. Brzozowski and Elaine Kilinski, for their assistance and presence over the past years; to Dr. Kevin DeLacey, for his 30 plus years of primary care; to the doctors, nurses and staff of the emergency department at St. Vincent’s Hospital; as well as to the chaplains of the hospital for their compassionate pastoral care.

Henry-Dirsa Funeral Home, 33 Ward St., Worcester conducted the funeral arrangements.