Frank J. Jurek, Sr., Christmas tree plantation owner

J u re k

Frank J. Jurek, Sr., 90, of East Amherst, owner of Jurek Plantations, the largest retailer of cut-your-own-Christmas trees in New York State, died Monday, Aug. 27, 2007.

Born in Buffalo, he attended St. Mary's Parochial School in Swormville. As a young man, Mr. Jurek found his passion for growing Christmas trees through his leadership in the 4H Club. He was recognized in 1964 for ten years of leadership by the Cooperative Extension of the US Department of Agriculture and NY State Extension Service.

Mr. Jurek operated two construction companies. He also built many homes and worked on many remodeling projects which opted him to start Jurek Lumber which he founded in 1950.

Mr. Jurek was recognized by Daemen College in 1984 for his generations of service to the Western New York community.

Mr. Jurek was an active member of Swormville Fire Co. for over 25 years. He was one of the founders of Little League Baseball and Boy Scout Troop 279 in the Town of Amherst. He was a Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus, Williamsville Council.

Mr. Jurek was president of the Holy Name Society and a trustee for St. Mary's Church for over 35 years. He enjoyed bowling, baseball, horseshoes, hunting and fishing. He was also an avid traveler.

Mr. Jurek is survived by his wife of 66 years, the former Edna Witnauer; three sons, James, Gerald and Frank Jr.; a daughter, Carol Ann; three brothers, Henry, Richard and Robert; and a sister, Helen Sustak.

Services will be held at 9:15 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 31 from Amigone Funeral Home, 5200 Sheridan Drive, Amherst, followed by a service at 10 a.m. from St. Mary's Church in Swormville, 6919 Transit Road.