George Bajenaru

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of George Bajenaru, a cherished poet, writer, journalist, and translator, who left an indelible mark on the literary world. Born on November 4th, 1938, in the quaint village of Tunari near Bucharest, Romania, George was the beloved son of Dumitru and Constantina, who were peasant midfielders.

George's life was a tapestry woven with rich experiences and profound contributions to the arts and humanities. In 1967, he married Prof. Elisabeta (Erszebeth) Mihalcz, and together they built a loving family, blessed with two children, Catalina and Petre Mugur, and five grandchildren: Sofia, Roman, Juliet, Amelia, and John George Bajenaru. He was always in search of truth and freedom.  He never stopped believing in a free world where all could express their hearts without fear, where the Word was supreme and blessed rather than harmed, enlightened and uplifted rather than humiliated and enslaved. His journey took him from Romania to Germany and finally to the United States, in search for freedom.  In an ultimate gesture of rebellion against an oppressive system, he left his wife and children behind on a snowy December day and defected to the free world. The years spent in the refugee camp in Germany was a traumatic time for all.  The family was apart for several years but through the grace of God they were reunited on Thanksgiving day in 1983 at Logan Airport in Boston.  That happy day continues to live in the hearts of the family and those who hear of this story of hope and triumph of love over insurmountable odds.   Please see this beautiful story at https://www.csmonitor.com/1988/1123/ubaj.html

George’s passions were manifold, from his love for books and teaching children to his dedication to journalism. An avid soccer player and referee, he found joy both on the field and as a spectator of the beautiful game. His sense of humor and penchant for storytelling brought laughter and joy to many.

George was a lifelong learning, dedicated heart and soul to education and the value it brings to the world. He attended Elementary School in Comuna Tunari, Pedagogical School No.3 in Bucharest (Teacher's degree, 1956), Pedagogical Institute, Bucharest-Faculty of Philology (Degree of Education, 1964), and the University of Bucharest (Bachelor's Degree in Romanian Language and Literature, 1971). His thirst for knowledge led him to pursue post-graduate courses in Journalism and languages, mastering English and German, and a Creative Writing Course at Boston University.

In Romania, George served as an elementary and high school teacher and journalist. His career in the United States was equally distinguished, contributing to "The Christian Science Monitor" and working as a substitute teacher in Cambridge, MA.

George’s literary career was significant, with his works spanning poetry, novels, short stories, essays, and critical studies. His debut as a poet in 1969 was heralded by Ana Blandiana, and he continued to publish extensively under both his Romanian and American names. Notable works include "Restless Planet/Tulburătoare Lume", "The Chill of Estrangement", and many others. His contributions were recognized and celebrated in various prestigious anthologies and journals across the globe.

He was a beacon of compassion, often praying for world peace, and his gentle presence touched the hearts of all who knew him. His writings were a source of inspiration and comfort, reflecting his deep empathy and love for humanity.

George’s legacy is adorned with numerous accolades, including the Dimitrie Bolintineanu Award (Romania, 1975) and the Editor's Choice Award from The National Library of Poetry (USA, 1995, 1996). He was a distinguished member of the Romanian-American Academy of Sciences and Arts, the American Union Writers, and the International Poets Society.

George Bajenaru's life was a testament to the power of words and the enduring impact of kindness and creativity. He will be remembered for his profound contributions to literature and his unwavering dedication to his family, friends, and the world at large. His memory will continue to inspire and uplift all who had the privilege of knowing him and he will forever be remembered through his writings.

In addition to his wife, children, and grandchildren, George is survived by his siblings:  Stefan, Pierre, and Ana Bajenaru.  He was also brother of the late Elena Gherghin, Maria Dinu, and Ion Bajenaru.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend the visiting hours Wednesday from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Kfoury Keefe Funeral Home.  A graveside funeral service will be held on Thursday at 11:00 a.m. at The Gardens Cemetery in West Roxbury.

In lieu of flowers, please make a ugift contribution using the link below under DONATIONS.

Rugămintea de pe urmă

Moarte, poarta mea deschisă, Către veșnica viață, Unde nimeni nu îngheață Unde umbre nu mai sânt Doar lumină și cuvânt, Lumină mângâietoare Și cuvânt de sărbătoare. Lasă-mă să trec plângând Cu-al meu gând de pe Pământ!... Și sorbit precum un nour De lumina de la soare, Sufletu-mi eliberat Va călca descătușat. Wakefield, februarie 2015

The last prayer Death, my open gate, To eternal life, Where no one is ice cold Where there are no more shadows Only light and the word, Comforting light And words of celebration. Let me pass teary eyed With my Earthly memories And be inhaled like mist By the light of the sun, My soul freed Will step forward unchained.

Wakefield, February 2015

George Bajenaru

English translation by Catalina Bajenaru

A Gift in Memory of George Bajenaru
Ugift code 25P-H7C, AL
Web: https://www.ugift529.com/