Joseph "Joe" Edward Bac

Joseph Edward Bac, husband, father, son, brother, and friend, lived a rich and wholehearted life—surrounded by a loving family, and marked by his humor, warmth, and affection for the people and passions that shaped him.

Born with an adventurous spirit and a naturally friendly nature, Joe met every chapter of his life with humor and openness. He loved OU football with the intensity of a true fan, and he felt most at peace near the ocean, in the water, or sitting quietly with a good cigar and a bourbon. Joe’s patriotism ran deep, shaped by his love for his country and his years of service in the United States Air Force, where he completed Basic Training and Contracting School in San Antonio, Texas, followed by assignments in Grand Forks, North Dakota, and Jacksonville, Arkansas.

Though Joe’s life was filled with love, laughter, and joy, he also carried internal struggles that became overwhelming in ways even those closest to him could not see. Though he was deeply loved, his burdens grew heavier than he felt able to share, and our hearts ache that he suffered in silence. We are comforted by the certain knowledge that Jesus Christ, his Savior, was with him even in his darkest moments, holding him with compassion and grace.

As we walk through this loss, we are learning to carry the complicated emotions that come with it. The pain, confusion, and unanswered questions are real, yet so is our desire to respond with grace, compassion, and forgiveness. We trust that God will continue to heal the places in our hearts that feel broken, and we hold tightly to the hope that Joe is now held in perfect peace by his Savior. Even in our sorrow, we find comfort in remembering the many ways Joe brought joy, curiosity, and warmth into the world.

Joe had a gift for finding joy in both the simple and the extraordinary. He was an enthusiastic cook and baker who loved his vegetable garden, experimenting with new ingredients, and preparing excellent meals for his friends and family—often accompanied by one of his crafted cocktails. He delighted in his chickens (“the girls”), treasured time soaking in a hot bath or relaxing in a hot tub, and enjoyed exploring microbreweries wherever he traveled.

A true outdoorsman, he loved camping, hiking, scouting, and anything that brought him into God’s creation. He cherished his church family at Journey Church and held strong passions for pro‑life causes and adoption advocacy.

Joe’s “nerdy side” was one of his most endearing traits. He relished computer games, detailed role‑playing games, and any competitive game where he could proudly serve as the “rule master.” His love extended to his pets, which continue to bring his kids and wife so much happiness.

Above all, Joe loved his family. He treasured his wife, Sydney, and was a playful and deeply proud father to his children: Daniel (15), Liberty (12), and Ronald (7). He valued his extended family and found joy in taking part in his in‑laws’ lives as well.

Survived By

• Mother: Diane Bac
• Stepfather: Doug Christ
• Wife: Sydney Bac
• Children: Daniel, Liberty, and Ronald
• Sister: Liz Buls
• Brother‑in‑Law: Brad Buls
• Father‑ & Mother‑in‑Law: Tim and Carla Raglin
• Sister‑ & Brother‑in‑Law: Aubrey and Andrew Woodard
• Aunts: Jeanine Mercer Halstead and Sharon Mercer Collin
• Cousins: Michael Fricke, Mitch Fricke
• Many beloved uncles, nieces, nephews, and extended family members

Preceded in Death By

• Father: Ronald Bac
• Grandparents

With Gratitude

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to their Journey Church, Citylight Church, and The Gathering Church communities; the Gretna Public Schools teachers and administration; and the remarkable group of friends and family who stepped forward during this difficult season—helping with the move, providing meals, supporting Sydney financially, ensuring the children had a special Christmas, praying faithfully, and being the true hands and feet of Jesus.

A Life Remembered

Joe dreamed of traveling the world—especially to Japan—and he lived with the kind of wide‑eyed wonder and fun abandonment that made every day full of new discoveries. We know he is healed from all his hurts, mistakes, and regrets in the arms of Jesus now, as he walks in eternity with his Savior.

He will be deeply and forever missed.

In Lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of these two organizations that Joe admired:

The Journey Church Benevolence Fund

Assure Crisis Pregnancy Center