It is with heavy hearts that we announce Jeff Baczkowski of Hays, a beloved son, father, brother, friend, and enthusiast of life, left this world on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2023, in Brighton, Colo. Born in Hays on March 24, 1976, to Pierre Charles “Skip” Baczkowski and Karen Ann Jacobs. Jeff was 47 years old. He departed way too soon, but the memories he leaves behind will forever make us smile.
He worked at DSNWK as a social worker for over 10 years. He attended TMP-Marian High School, was a 1994 graduate of Shawnee Mission North-West High School, and was a graduate of Fort Hays State University and made his home in Hays.
Jeff spent much of his youth in Pfeifer, riding through town on go-karts and delivering diesel with his grandfather Alfred. He spent time in Lawrence at KU and made some other stops along the way before returning home to Hays. He was a passionate soul who knew how to savor every moment. Jeff’s love for music, sports and the next great adventure were a testament to his vibrant spirit.
Music was the passion of Jeff's life. He attended hundreds if not thousands of live concerts. His enthusiasm for music was infectious, and he had a knack for making connections through the power of a shared tune.
Jeff cheered passionately for all “his” teams, whether at Allen Fieldhouse, Arrowhead, Kaufman or the comfort of his own home. Yet, for all his love of music and sports, Jeff's heart truly found its greatest joy in the company of his family and friends. He cherished every moment spent with them and his eyes lit up retelling stories of past times together. Jeff was a doting father. He loved his boys and was incredibly proud of their many accomplishments.
Jeff leaves behind a legacy of passion, friendship and zest for life. He taught us to appreciate every note of music, every game, every meal and every minute spent together. His warm smile, hearty laughter and generous spirit brought light into the lives of all who knew him.
Jeff is survived by his sons, Brooks Baczkowski and Brody Baczkowski, both of Hays; his Father, P. C. “Skip” Baczkowski and wife Susan of Stockton, M0.; his brother, Nathan Baczkowski and Erin Wagner, of Hays; his nephew, Cohen Baczkowski, of Hays; his uncles, Fred Jacobs and wife, Jane, Louisville, Ky.; Tim Jacobs and wife, Joyce, Olathe; Jean Baczkowski and wife, Ruth, Valley Center; Theo Baczkowski, Dighton; Richard Baxter, Great Bend, his aunt, Stacy Miller and husband, John, Kansas City, Mo.; his step-grandmother, Virginia “Jeannie” Jacobs; his children’s mother, Kayla Diehl, of Hays; step-brother, Travis Votaw and wife, Penny of Lansing; step-niece, Kirsten Smallwood and husband, Ryan of Manhattan; step-sister, Sara August and husband, Brad of Lansing; step-niece, Lillian August of Lansing; and a host of extended family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Karen; his grandparents, Jean and Jeanne Baczkowski; Alfred and Rita Jacobs; aunts Fifi Baxter and Ilo Baczkowski.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2023, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 13th and Ash, Hays, with Father Rich Daise officiating. A private family Inurnment will be held at Holy Cross Cemetery, Pfeifer.
Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday and from 9 to 10 a.m. Wednesday, at. St. Joseph Catholic Church. A vigil service and Rosary will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the church.
We will gather to remember and celebrate a well-lived life, that continues to inspire us to savor every moment. Jeff will be dearly missed but fondly remembered as a man who embraced life with open arms and an open heart.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials made payable to: Nathan Baczkowski {for Jeff’s boys} in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 E. 22nd St., Hays, KS 67601.
Condolences can be sent via e-mail to [email protected] or left at guestbook at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com.