Dr. Mitchell A. Baran
August 27, 2015
1934 – 2015
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Mitchell A. Baran of London, Ontario, Canada, at the age of 81, after a short and courageous battle with cancer. Loving husband to Kathryn (Binder), father of George Baran (Cathy), Matthew Baran (Amy & daughter Jessica), Kristen Baran (Mitch Kates) and Danielle Baran-Lexovsky (Glen). Brother to Stella Neziol (Leo), the late Jean Mitchell and the late John Baran (Adele), he will truly be missed.
Dr. Baran, the son of Polish immigrants who came to North America in the 1920’s with nothing in their pockets but a will to succeed, lived a life of passion and integrity. He was a highly successful entrepreneur, businessman and philanthropist who, as a youth, was a gifted student and talented musician, a fan of jazz and Big Band music and who played woodwind instruments as a member of the popular ‘The Polka Band’.
Through hard work and a vision beyond his time, he would eventually become owner and chairman of the Trudell Medical Group, a global player in the manufacturing and distribution of medical products as well as being a director of several Canadian and U.S. companies.
He regarded his employees as friends and family, and many have been with the company for 20 years or more. Dr. Baran was involved in a number of Federal and Provincial committees initiated to promote the growth of the healthcare and pharmaceutical business in Canada. He has served as chairman and in various other capacities for a number of healthcare institutions in London, Ontario and was the founding Chairman of Let’s Talk Science. Dr. Baran has served as chairman of St. Mary’s Hospital, Marian Villa Home for the Aged, and is a past member of the Executive Committee of St. Joseph’s Health Centre. He was a member of the St. Joseph’s Society, the umbrella organization for the hospital owned by the Sisters of St. Joseph in the Diocese of London.
Dr. Baran was the recipient of the 2006/Lay Category, Partners in Research Biomedical Ambassadors Award as well as the Paul Harris Fellowship Award from the London Rotary Club. He was also an inductee of the London Business Hall of Fame and a recipient of the London Chamber of Commerce Business Achievement (ICON) Award.
Dr. Baran is an honoree of the Order of Canada and The Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal which recognizes a lifetime of outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. In addition, he was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the City of London.
Along with his wife and children, Dr. Baran has set up the Mitchell and Kathryn Baran Family Foundation which supports local healthcare and human services. He has also been a generous supporter of his alma mater, The University of Western Ontario.
He is fondly remembered for his kindness and dedication to helping individuals in whatever their needs. He is also remembered for being passionate about the importance of the role of innovation in Canada’s future economy and quality of life, being a champion for the City of London and for living life to its fullest. He was a true believer in “Life is a Contact Sport”. He will be truly missed and fondly remembered by all whose lives he has been in contact with.
The family would like to express its sincere appreciation to the many doctors and nurses for their support and care at the London Health Sciences Centre (Victoria and UWO), the London Regional Cancer Clinic and the nurses and PSWs from the Victorian Order of Nurses.
Visitation will be held on Saturday from 1-3 and 7-9 p.m. at WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, London. A celebration of life will be conducted at St. Peter’s Cathedral, 196 Dufferin Street, London, on Monday, August 31st, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the London Regional Cancer Program, St. Joseph’s Healthcare Foundation, the London Health Sciences Centre, the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada or the charity of your choice would be appreciated.
Leave a tribute for Dr. Mitchell A. Baran
Leave a tribute
(Donated to London Regional Cancer Program)
(Donated to London Regional Cancer Program)
(Donated to London Regional Cancer Program)
(Donated to London Regional Cancer Program)
(Donated to London Regional Cancer Program)
(Donated to London Health Sciences Centre)
(Donated to St. Joseph's Healthcare Foundation)
(Donated to Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada)
(Donated to St. Joseph's Healthcare Foundation)
(Donated to St. Joseph's Healthcare Foundation)
(Donated to London Regional Cancer Program)
(Donated to Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada)
(Donated to Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada)
(Donated to St. Joseph's Healthcare Foundation)
(Donated to Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada)
(Donated to St. Joseph's Healthcare Foundation)
(Donated to Woodstock Hospital Foundation)
(Donated to London Health Sciences Centre)
(Donated to St. Joseph's Healthcare Foundation)
(Donated to St. Joseph's Healthcare Foundation)
To the Baran Family My deepest heartfelt sympathy to you all including the many fine people at The Trudell Medical Group of Companies. I had the pleasure of knowing and working with Mitch for 10 years while at Pro-Resp, Toronto. Great respect and admiration for him as a business leader , kind person and true gentleman. Although we have not kept in touch over these years I will always remember our long chats/meetings discussing not only business but life in general. He once reminded me that "your mom did not raise a stupid kid" which I have to remind myself on occasion. You have made your life mark Mitch and will be forever remembered by many . Rest in peace and God Bless you dearest Mitch! Sincerely John Carinci Newmarket, Ontario
I was very sorry to hear about the death of Mr Baran last week. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Mr Baran was a fantastic person who helped me when my father passed away. At the time I was an employee at Trudell Medical and my family lived in Toronto. Mr Baran was very supportive. I will always remember his kindness and the great conversations we had. Sincerely, Jane Clifford
Mitch was one of a kind! A great man who believed in the importance of family, hard work and helping those less fortunate then himself. I treasure the opportunity I had to work with Mitch. Mitch taught me there is always a solution. My thoughts and prays go out to the family. Thank you for being part of my life's journey. God Bless. Sincerely Carol Mason
Our heart felt condolences go out to the Baran family, and to the Trudell Medical family. Mitch will be sorely missed. It has been a great privilege to know Mitch and to work with him and Trudell over the years. Working with Mitch is like taking a master class in business and in life's precious lessons, and we are all the better for the opportunity to have done so. May his memory be a blessing and a comfort to his family and friends in the days to come.
We always anticipated meeting your dad because he brought us joy, wisdom and encouragement. He was our role model. No one was more loyal, generous and demonstrated such integrity as did Mitch. We grieve for you Kathryn, George, Mathew, Kristen and Dani in your loss. We will also miss him terribly. Love, Angie and Cal.
Kathryn and Family Barb and I were so sorry to hear of Mitch's passing. He was a particularly gifted individual who contributed so much to his community, to the success of others and to improved health for countless people around the world. He was an inspired leader who left a mark that few will replicate. It is my honor to have been able to work with Mitch. Sincerely, Keith and Barb.
My deepest condolences to Mitch Baran's family. He was a wonderful man. He will be missed but never forgotten.
My condolences to the Baran family on the loss of a very special man. The time I spent working with Mitch at TMML was full of life lessons and good memories. Mitch cared deeply for all those who crossed his path in life and his employees were extended family to Mitch. He was one of the most brilliant men I have known and also one of the most humble. We were in touch from time to time over the years following my time at Trudell and I always enjoyed our chats. I will unfortunately not be able to join you in the celebration of Mitch's life as I am living in Calgary now but I will be with you in spirit.
My deepest sympathy to the Baran family. I am a former employee of Pro Resp. Mitch was a true gentleman. I am grateful to have known him.
My heartfelt condolences to the Baran Family. Mitch was the rare individual who excelled in his work while always keeping his family first and foremost. One of a kind.
My former company was a business partner with TMML and I met Mitch through this relationship. He was a gentlemen, engaging and interested. I was immediately impressed and will miss discussions and time with him. My thoughts are with his family and friends as they deal with the reality of life without such a presence.
It was with great sadness we learned of Mitch Baran's passing. We will miss Mitch's generosity of spirit, kindness of heart, and quickness of mind. Mitch's legacy will live on not only in the Baran family but in the extended "Trudell" family as well - so many great people have been touched by him - he has left an indelible mark on the world. We are forever grateful to have known him. Our sincerest condolences to Mr B's family and friends.
I wish to express my heartfelt condelences to the Baran family. Mitch was such a kind and generous man. On more than a few occassions, Mitch helped me with career development, expressing genuine interest, sound direction, encouragement and advice. My family was especially grateful for his support of National Service Dogs when we received 'Sadie' to assist my son with autism. Mitch has been a dear family friend and he will be missed.
The Shene Family was saddened to learn of Mitch's death. My husband worked for Mitch for many years at Monaghan Medical. My son, Michael, also worked there until he left the area. We appreciate everything Mitch did for us and for the Scholarship he established in Bill's Memory. I had no idea of the many accomplishments in Mitch's life or the many accolades he earned. I used to encourage him to stop and smell the roses once in awhile. I never knew he planted a garden full of roses that were responsible for touching lives so many lives. We are sorry for your loss. We have lost a dear friend and we will miss him. Love and Prayers, Ginny Shene and Family
(Donated to London Regional Cancer Program)
(Donated to Princess Margaret Cancer Centre)
Dearest Kristen, Dani and the Baran family. I am so sorry for the loss of your wonderful father, words cannot adequately express the heartfelt condolences I wish to send each of you. Your father was a remarkable man of incredible kindness who touched and inspired the lives of so many. I wish you all comfort and peace during this very difficult time.
Our deepest condolences to the family. No one can prepare you for a loss; it comes like a swift wind. May you take comfort in knowing this larger than life, well respected man will not be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time.
My deepest sympathy and condolence to Mr. Baran’s family in this time of bereavement. Simply Mr. “B” to us at TMI, he touched so many lives in countless ways and so inspired us all. We’ll remember well his remarkable life as a man of great achievement, success yet sense of humor, humility and compassion who despite his demanding schedule was never too busy to stop and acknowledge each and every one of us here at TMI. The world will not be the same without him.
Our sincere condolences to the Baran family at this difficult time. Please know that our thoughts are with you.
Tears are somtimes the best words the heart can speak. For all those who knew him and loved him his legacy of hard work, respect, integrity and philanthropy will be remembered and honoured for years to come. My deepest sympathy is extended to the Baran family.
It is with a heavy heart that we tell you how sorry we are to hear of Mr. Baran's passing. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Our heartfelt sympathies to the Baran family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Danielle, Word’s cannot express the sadness I am feeling for you and your family as you are mourning the loss of your father. He was truly an amazing man and was soo fortunate to have you love him the way you do. Sending love and hugs your way.
My heart goes out to all the Baron family. It has been my privilege to be a part of the Trudell family for almost 9 years. Mr. Baron made me feel welcome and special from the start, as he did all his Trudell family members. His saying that "Nothing great is ever accomplished without Passion" are words that will continue to inspire me for years to come.
Judy, George, Matthew, Kristen and Dani, our deepest sympathy is with you at this time of sadness. Mitch was an outstanding person in so many ways and helped so many people in so many different ways in his lifetime. I remember as a child, the laughter he brought to our house when he visited with my Dad. May he rest in peace with the others that have gone before him. Heaven has truly gained another angel.
There are no profound words or great wisdom that can relieve the pain that your family is feeling right now. You can only take comfort in knowing that Mr. Baran's life was able to touch so many other lives while he was with us over these many years. Take solace in knowing that he will be truly missed by all that knew him and called him friend, mentor and teacher. Our deepest sympathies go out to you during this difficult time.
My deepest sympathies to the Baran Family. Dr Baran had a personal and professional interest in health research that matters to patients with chronic lung disease. My best research ideas and results stemmed from our lively and frank discussions about research, innovation and the role of academia and industry in changing health outcomes. Not only did he deeply care about helping patients, but his integrity, personal interest and enthusiasm for innovation and for the individuals who toiled in its pursuit, provided an enduring source of support that will not be transcended.
My heart felt condolences go out to George and the rest of the Baran family. I have had the privilege of knowing and working with Mitch for many years. He has been a great friend and mentor. I will miss him deeply and our talks about world issues. His breath of knowledge amazed me everyday and I can only wish to have the strength, stamina and humour that I saw in him. Rest peacefully my dear friend.
Mitch Baran's personal involvement in our work helped St. Joseph's to become the strong organization it is today--an impact that will continue to be felt for years to come. I so enjoyed time with Mitch and learned much from him over many years - what a privilege it was to know him and to see his community leadership example inspire others. Our heartfelt sympathies to the Baran family, and to everyone at Trudell.
We send our heartfelt condolences to Mitchell Baran's family. As an employee of nearly 20 years, I (Jolyon) am thankful to have met such a person who gave me a second chance at a career, when the future looked bleak for us in the UK. 'Mitch' was a friend right from the start, adopting us into the Trudell Medical family, and I looked up to him as a mentor for how to live and 'do the right thing' in business affairs. Our prayers now go to his family as they grieve his passing.
My wife, Angela Carruthers, and I give our deepest condolences to George and his family at this difficult time.
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Dr. Mitch Baran. May God bless you with strength and comfort during this difficult time.
I am deeply saddened with the passing of Dr. Mitch Baran, a great Canadian, a friend and supporter of Western and a friend and mentor to me. We'll miss him dearly but his legacy will live on. I offer my heartfelt condolences to the members of the Baran family. Sincerely, Amit Chakma
Dear Aunt Judy, George, Matthew, Kristen & Dani, Our heartfelt condolences and our prayers are with you. The last time we talked to Uncle Mitch was in March. He said to us, “When you come across people in your life that are grateful, stay close to them”. We will never forget what a great man he was. Love Paul & Tracey Neziol
My heartfelt condolences go out to Mr. Baran’s family. It was an honour to have known such a wonderful and inspirational man. He will surely be missed by all who had the privilege to know him.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Baran family at this time. I will always remember when Mitchell and family visited Baran and Gorski family in New Jersey. Many good memories. Another angel in heaven.
Dear George, My Deepest sympathies.He was a great man, glad I got to be him for a day,a great memory .
To the Baran family.. My deepest sympathies. Mitch was a remarkable person and outstanding business mind which I had the fortune to work for his very respected organization. He was a mentor.
Dear George: Please accept our heartfelt condolences to you and your family on the loss of your father. Words are never adequate in moments like this. However, I would like to express that we will always remember the prized memories we are privileged to have in knowing your father. It was a honor to work with him over the last 31 years and to get to know him personally. He was a man of great character. May peace and comfort find you and your family during this difficult time. Sincerely Jerry Grychowski and family
I can only echo the many heartfelt comments provided by others who were lucky enough, as was I, to have had the opportunity to interact with this wonderful and caring person. As a direct result of Mitch's unwavering commitment to quality respiratory care through innovative product design and development, thousands of individuals worldwide with pulmonary disorders are breathing easier. He will be missed but his legacy will endure for decades. Farewell my esteemed and respected colleague.
Our Deepest Sympathy to the Baran Family at this very sad time. Mitch was a True Gentleman, with a Kind and Loving Heart. He will be missed by his friends in Brantford.
Mitch was a loyal friend to my father A.M. (Mac) Cuddy. They had a special bond for more than 50 years. Mitch was a brilliant strategist, a tremendous leader and as we all know an incredibly successful businessman. We have lost a fearless leader in the Canadian business community, and a generous philanthropist to Fanshawe, Western and the Robarts Institute. Mitch and AM will have a great deal to discuss.
Dear George and family: Very sorry to hear about the loss of Mitch. My deepest sympathies go out to everyone. Mitch was a very kind person and admired by everyone who met him. I and every respiratory therapist who benefited from his great desire to enhance our knowledge for how to best care for patients with breathing disorders will truly miss him. He is in our hearts and will never be forgotten. Ray Masferrer
My thoughts and prayers are with the Baran family. Mitch was a man of substance who has left his mark on countless lives. His generosity to the poor and homeless in London was truly appreciated. Hoping your many memories will comfort you at this time.
So sorry to read this news today Kristen, my thoughts go out to you and your family. I met your Father once, he was an extremely warm and lovely man. Thinking of you and your family at this difficult time. Cynthia.
My sincerest condolences to all relatives of Mr Baran, he was truly an exceptional human being and will be sorely missed by a lot of people.
Mr. B will be forever missed and always remembered. Though my time knowing him was brief in comparison to others, the impact he made was enough to fill decades. I will be forever grateful for his kind spirit and will be constantly motivated by his passion for excellence. He is a man to be admired and is someone I am proud to have known. My deepest sympathies go to the Baran family. May you take solace knowing he will live on through the memories of many.
It is with great sadness that we learned of Mr. Baran’s (Mitch’s) passing. Our sincere condolences to Kathryn and the entire family during this difficult time. Mitch meant so much to so many people, including me. 32 years ago he took a chance on a young man and provided me with a new a career, and for this, I will be forever grateful. Mitch was a mentor, a friend, and most of all, a man that I respected and aspired to be. I know that his legacy of hard work, passion, determination, compassion, and respect for all those he met, will live on and inspire many for years to come.
Somebody once said, "You can impress from a distance, but you can only impact up close." Dr. Mitchell Baran or Mr. "B" to so many of his employees was that kind of a man. A boss, a leader, a teacher, a mentor and a friend that impacted our lives in so many ways that there are not enough words to describe how Mitch affected our lives, not only personally and corporately but also on a local, national and international level. I have worked for this company for over 35 years and this loss is affecting so many long time employees. To steal a phrase from Margaret Laurence’s Stone Angel, “it’s hard to imagine a world and Mitch not in it”. It’s even harder to imagine a Trudell and Mitch not in it. My prayers are with the entire Baran family. May God comfort you in your loss.
Dear George and Family, I was so saddened to hear of the passing of Mitch. He was one of the best and someone that I looked up to. I appreciated his business acumen, his intellect, his wisdom and of course his humor. He made a difference in my life and I only hope to impart some of that on others. You and the family are in our thoughts and prayers!
Mr Baran gave so much to his community, and at King's we will always be grateful for his guidance, support and kindness.
Dear George, Matthew, Kristen, & Danielle, I was sorry to learn of your father's passing. I have known he was ill and have kept him, and you in my prayers. I was honored to know your father. He was one of my heroes, and role models. He taught me many things over the years, but I remember him most for reminding me that "life was a contact sport"(his words), at a time when I felt pretty down. I have leaned on that conversation for many years, to my benefit, and will forever remember your dad for his counsel and support. He never forgot that he was put on this earth to help the sick and he walked the walk. Please know he is in a better place and if we are lucky, we'll see him again. He was the best of us !
My deepest condolences to the Baran Family and the entire Trudell Medical Team. I am a former employee with the manufacturing department, and I was lucky enough to work at TMI for 5 years. Although I didn't know Mr. Baran personally, I do remember his friendliness, kindness and generosity . I am forever grateful for my time I had at TMI ; and being part of one of his greatest success stories. Thoughts to all during this difficult time. Kathryn Henry - Nanaimo, British Columbia
On behalf of the 50,000 members of the AARC, our deepest sympathies and condolences go to the family of Dr. Baran. Although I didn't know him personally, Dr. Baran was a long-time supporter of the AARC and our Board of Medical Advisors (BOMA). He will be missed especially for the work that he did to innovate health outcomes for patients with lung disease. May he rest in peace and may you treasure the memory of his time here on earth. Frank Salvatore AARC President
Make a donation
If you wish to make a donation, please consider one of the charities listed below. You will be taken to the charity's website to process your payment.
London Regional Cancer Program
St. Joseph's Healthcare Foundation
London Health Sciences Centre
Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada
Notify family of your donation
Kindly submit the form below if you wish to notify the family of your donation.Memories
(Donated to London Health Sciences Centre)
~ WORLDiscoveries at Western