Stanley Bachleda Obituary

In Loving Memory

Stanislaw (Stanley) Bachleda

October 9, 1948 - March 20, 2025

With deep love and admiration, the family of Stanislaw (Stanley) Bachleda announces his peaceful passing on March 20, 2025, in his hometown of Zakopane, Poland. He was 76.

Born in Zakopane, a jewel of the Carpathian Mountains and Poland's "winter capital" Stanley's life was rooted in tradition, sport, and family. From a young age, he showed athleticism and dedication, becoming a Nordic skier and rising to join the esteemed SNPTT ski club, Poland's first ski club, founded in 1907. His talent on the snow led him to the Polish National Ski Team, where he proudly represented his country both nationally and internationally. Over the course of his athletic career, he earned multiple podium finishes in five Polish National Championships and placed in the top ten at the World Junior Championships in France and Switzerland.

Stanley's passion for culture was equally strong. He was a devoted member of Bartusie Obrochty, Zakopane's celebrated international folk dance group. For ten years as a professional dancer, he traveled across Europe performing at international folklore festivals, which was an extraordinary opportunity to experience the "Western" world during a time when Poland's borders were closed. It was through this dance group that he met his wife, Helen.

Motivated by a desire to offer his children a life beyond the limitations of communist Poland, Stanley made the decision to emigrate to the United States in the late 1970s. where he lived for 30 years before returning back to Zakopane. There, he began a new chapter defined by entrepreneurship, resilience, and determination. At the age of 30, he founded Standard General Construction, a construction services business which he ran and operated for over 25 years. Under his leadership, SGC provided services to thousands of customers across the Chicago metropolitan area.

Stanley placed tremendous value on academic achievement and was deeply committed to seeing his children succeed in their studies. His determination and belief in the power of education became a core part of his legacy.

While in the United States, Stanley remained deeply connected to his roots in Polish culture and winter sport. He was the director of the "song and dance" school of the Polish Highlanders Alliance of America, founded in 1929. He was also an early and influential member of the Tatry Ski Club, where he competed year-round in Nordic and Alpine skiing during the winter, and in track and field events throughout the summer. His athletic excellence made him the most decorated athlete in the club's history, earning the prestigious "Sportsman of the Year" award 7 times. Beyond competition, he served as President of the club for several years and was a longtime member of its board of directors, helping to shape and grow the organization for future generations.

He is survived by his wife Helen; his sons Marcin (Martin) and Szymon (Simon) and his wife Rachael; and his cherished grandchildren: Oliver (16), an alpine ski racer proudly representing Poland; Audrey (13); and Spencer (9), both active in ski racing and ice hockey. His legacy lives on in their achievements, spirit, and deep connection to the mountains he loved.

Stanley Bachleda's life was a blend of passion for sport, commitment to culture, and love for family.

Vigil and Funeral Service

The vigil service and viewing will be held on Sunday, March 30th at 6:00 p.m. at the family home in Koscielisko. A funeral will be held on March 31st, beginning with a 10:00 a.m. cavalcade procession from the Bachleda family home in Koscielisko to the Church of Saint Casimir. A celebration of life lunch will follow at 2:00 p.m. at the Bachleda Kasprowy Hotel in Zakopane. All who knew Stanley are invited to join in honoring his life.

Legacy and Contributions

In honor of Stanley Bachleda, the Bachleda Family Foundation has made a $1 million contribution to Brother Rice High School in Chicago, Illinois. This gift will establish a fund to support access to a parochial education for future generations. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to Brother Rice High School in Stanley's memory.

To make a gift in Stanley's memory, please visit:

https://www.brotherrice.org/crusaderfund-payment/