Casimir 'Vic' Bak, 78

Casimir “Vic” Bak passed away peacefully at Hospice House in Coeur d’Alene on Aug. 2, 2026, with his wife, Pat, by his side. Vic was born in Philadelphia and raised in Felton, Del. Growing up, he became involved in ham radio, Scouting, Civil Air Patrol and ROTC. He also played trumpet, baritone and sousaphone in school. He graduated with a degree in communications from BYU, where he met Pat. They were later married in the LDS Salt Lake Temple in 1970.

Vic parlayed his lifelong enthusiasm for amateur radio into an illustrious career as an Air Force officer, where he specialized in communications. His career took his family around the world, including postings in Indiana, Misawa, Japan — where he was a Squadron Commander — Brussels, Belgium (NATO), Alabama, Nebraska and Virginia (Langley and the Pentagon). While overseas, he, Pat and their kids took many trips to visit different countries and landmarks. They loved these adventures together as a family. After his retirement from the military at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, Pat and Vic moved their family to Coeur d’Alene, where they enjoyed home and family life for 36 years. He is remembered as an exemplary provider and supporter of his family. Vic was an avid skier and cyclist and served in many capacities in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Vic’s passion for ham radio continued after military retirement. He remained on the airwaves with his callsign K3SHD, connecting with friends near and far.

Vic is preceded in death by his parents, Zdzislaw and Jessie, and his brother, Edmund. He is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Pat, who was his primary caregiver during the last years of his life. He is also survived by his three loving children, Kathryn (Rob), Nathan (Amy) and Meredith (Jordan), eight grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He is greatly loved and missed. The family will hold a private graveside service, with a memorial to follow at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Vic’s memory to the Amateur Radio Relay League (ARRL) Historical Preservation Fund. www.home.arrl.org.