It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Barbara (Basia) Ziemiak, 65, of Clifton, New Jersey. After a 2-year long battle with ALS, Barbara passed away peacefully in her home while receiving the loving care of her family. She was a bright light in this world and will be sincerely missed by all who knew her.

Born in Poland, Barbara traveled to the US in 1980 and settled in Passaic, Clifton, and Kinnelon, NJ. A parishioner of St. John Kanty RC Church in Clifton, Barbara was very devoted to the St. John Kanty Parish. She was a bank teller for Wells Fargo in Pompton Plains, NJ for over 35 years where she developed a lasting relationship with customers and coworkers alike.

Barbara's greatest joy and passion involved spending time with her family and friends. She was dearly loved and cherished by her husband of 41 years, Henryk Ziemiak, her son Philip Ziemiak with wife Andrea of Denville, and daughter, Caroline Ziemiak of Clifton. Barbara also cherished her lasting relationship with granddaughter, Penelope Ziemiak during the short but precious 3 ½ years that they shared together. She is also survived by her loving brother, Marek Rydz and wife, Malgorzata Rydz of Lublin, Poland. Barbara was predeceased by her father, Eugeniusz Rydz and mother, Danuta Rydz of Poland.

Although the last 2 years have been a very difficult struggle for Barbara and her family, her optimism, strength, and unwavering resolve remained evident in her continuous smile and laughter during this time. Barbara loved fiercely and deeply and her family takes comfort in knowing that she is now at peace and surrounded by light.

Friends may visit with the family on Monday, October 23rd from 5-9pm at the Shook Funeral Home, 639 Van Houten Ave., Clifton, NJ.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, October 24th at 8:45 AM at the funeral home and 10 AM at St. John Kanty RC Church, Clifton, NJ. Interment will be in St. Michael's Cemetery, South Hackensack, NJ.

Those wishing to make a donation in Barbara's name in lieu of flowers are asked to consider the ALS Association, www.ALS.org, in memory of Barbara.