By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs
Joseph "Joe" Beszczynski Jr., of Darien Center, passed away at the age of 89 on Nov. 29 after a long illness.
Beszczynski was born in Buffalo to the late Joseph and Anna (Krawczyk) Beszczynski Sr.
Although he worked construction, he eventually got involved in harness racing and ended up training and driving horses for more than 30 years. He competed at Batavia Downs and Vernon Downs for most of the year but would travel to Aurora Downs in the winter on the advice of his good friend Bob Altizer.
Beszczynski was first licensed to drive in 1962 and campaigned a stable of horses until 1993. During that time he amassed 154 wins and earned $316,747 in purses. His best year came in 1983 when he won 17 races. He raced horses of both gaits but one of this top horses was a trotter named St. Joesph, who was a 12-time winner during his career and was bred and owned by his wife, Helen.
When Beszczynski retired from racing he worked at Skyline Campground, which was near his home and also spent his time enjoying stock car racing.
Beszczynski is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Helen (Rustowicz); his children, Joe (Kate) Beszczynski III and Linda (David) Shoe; grandson, Joe (Janet) Beszczynski IV; and great-grandchildren, James, Abigail, and Destiny; siblings, Adele (the late Dan) Tybor, Gene (Edwina) Beszczynski, Dan (the late Cecilia) Beszczynski; many nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his grandson, Timothy, and his brothers, Ray and Cy Beszczynski.
