Prominent Falls plumber Henry 'Hank' Bryk passes away at 80
'Old school, not many like him around anymore.'
That was how friends and former workers of H.W. Bryk & Sons Inc. were remembering the company's founder, Henry 'Hank' W. Bryk, on Friday night.
Bryk, 80, of Youngstown, passed away earlier in the day surrounded by family at Niagara Hospice House.
'He was a good man, a very good man,' former Niagara Falls City Council Member Kenny Tompkins recalled.
Born in the Falls, Bryk graduated from Niagara Falls High School before serving in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. He learned the plumbing trade during his years of service and when he returned home in 1965, he went to work at Edwards Plumbing.
In 1988, Bryk founded his own business in the Falls, specializing in residential and commercial plumbing, heating, and cooling. For more than 37 years, he and his family have operated out of their Military Road headquarters.
'Mr. Bryk was the kind of guy you could do business with on a handshake,' said Tompkins, who worked for him for a decade. 'He was old school and cared for his workers and his customers. He never cut corners and was as honest as the day is long.'
Tompkins recalled summer and Christmas parties that Bryk would hold for his employees at his Youngstown home. He also remembered monthly gifts of vitamins to workers, courtesy of the 50-year ownership of Bryk and his wife, Ingrid of Shaklee Distributors, a supplier of natural vitamins, supplements, and eco-friendly home products.
Bryk was known to be fond of working outdoors, tending to his gardens, and listening to music. He was described as 'devoted' to his family, especially his grandchildren.
He was also known for his philanthropy and support for countless local charities and not-for-profits.
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