John Max Baulski passed away unexpectedly on August 12, 2023, at his home. He was born in Meriden, son of the late John and Emmeline (Gurtowski) Baulski. His remarkable life was marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence both professionally and personally.

He attended Samuel Huntington School and Lincoln Junior High in Meriden. October of 1959, John enlisted with the United States Navy. He got his GED at the United States Armed Forces Institute. He graduated from the US Naval School, Machinist's Mate Class "A" and completed the Navy training course for Machinist's Mate Two. He served aboard the USS Leary, a gearing class destroyer, Guantanamo Bay Cuba, under the command of R.M. Chester. And he served aboard the USS Yosemite, a dixie class destroyer tender, Kingston Jamica, under the command of W.D. Gaddis. He was recommended for reenlistment but chose to complete his reserve obligation in September 1965. He was honored to receive the National Defense Service Medal, Expeditionary Medals Armed Forces Cuba and Navy Cuba, Navy "E" Ribbon and State of Connecticut Service Medals. He was very proud of his commitment to serving our country.

Upon returning to civilian life, John was in the service industry for over 50 years. He worked in and owned bars, hotels and restaurants of every conceivable quality and size. He was a professional licensed bartender, chef and fluent in all aspects of hotel and restaurant work. It all started at his family's dinner, The Lunch Box, in Meriden Connecticut, where his cooking apprenticeship began under his father. The Lunch Box was famously known for that juicy beef patty steamed and topped by a dollop of the best aged cheddar cheese, all dripping over a hard roll garnished with raw onion and spicy mustard, the steamed cheeseburger. And for dessert, apple pie with steamed cheddar cheese. The family motto, "A pie without cheese is like a kiss without the squeeze". In 1964, he was the manager of the Red Garter Steak House in Meriden. In 1965, he attended the University of Massachusetts Hotel & Restaurant School. While up in the northeast, John was a member of the New England Rider Association. He participated in the New England Sport Committee Motocross and advanced to an amateur scrambler. The beginning of his motorcycle riding adventure. In 1968, he was the purchasing agent, food & beverage controller for Hilton Hotels, Hartford. In 1971 he ventured to southern Vermont where he was the chef owner of three restaurant inns in the Manchester area: The Little One, Cobblestones and The Palace hotel. The Little One awarded him 3-stars from the Boston Globe; "His fettucine Alfredo dish was a far better representation than much that is served in many Greater Boston Italian-American restaurants… a good restaurant for a cozy, relaxed dinner". In 1981, tired of the twenty-four hours, seven days a week it took to run a restaurant business, he returned to Connecticut. He went to work as the beverage manager at MacAndrew's restaurant in Middletown. It was at this time he was working on a creation in conjunction with his professional experience and his passion for motorcycling riding, to open a place that didn't discriminate against motorcyclists and welcomed the general public as well. On July 12, 1981, was the grand opening of The Red Dog Saloon Café, Rte. 66, Middlefield, CT. It wasn't just apples that put Middlefield on the map. The Red Dog Saloon was a landmark, a monument to motorcycles. It was renowned for its unique clientele, fabulous food, good times and rated as "one hell of a fine biker bar". John organized many touring runs. He rode with numerous groups of dedicated motorcyclists. One such group inspired the creation of the NCMC riders; Rain, Shine, Mud, Or, Blood, We, Ride, maybe… John and the Red Dog Saloon family annually participated in fun charity events. The Connecticut River Raft Race held near Haddam each August and the winter offshoot; the Connecticut River Snow Race held at Powder Ridge in Middlefield. These competitive, good-natured events raised funds for several children's charities. The heartbeat of the Red Dog rumbled on for over 35 years.

Beyond his professional achievements, John discovered Hidden Lake in Higganum when he was out motorcycling riding. In 1990 he built his paradise there with his wife Charlene, his love of life and best friend. He was chairman of the lake committee and was devoted to maintaining the lake water quality and surroundings of the Hidden Lake municipality. John pursued Freemasonry. In 1994, he was raised to the Subline Degree of Master Mason, Meridian Lodge No. 77 in Meriden CT. He was constituted and proclaimed a Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret and A Noble of the Mystic Shrine in Sphinx Temple of Newington CT. He was dubbed Sir Knight and created a member of St Elmo, Meriden CT. He had a desire to learn to fly, it was on his bucket list. In May of 1995, he successfully flew his first solo flight out of Chester Airport, Chester CT. He earned his wings. In 2002, he acquired Cycles Unlimited in Portland to provide service, parts and accessories for Harleys and customs. He worked alongside his nephew Matt, our expert wrench.

Throughout his life, he spent quality time with his family and friends. He contributed to many. He cooked, hunted, fished, enjoyed photography, and participated in the most fun lifetime adventures. John spent the last 35 years with his bride. Together they enjoyed the same. Motorcycling and exploring... trips to Manhattan, Cape Cod, Provincetown; camping and surf fishing at Race Point; the comradery of the Rhode Island Mobile Sportfisherman club. John enjoyed fishing the jetty and shores at the RIMS beach property.

John was a life member of the Connecticut Motorcycle Riders Association, National Rifle Association and the Rhode Island Mobil Sportfisherman; and a member of the Connecticut Citizens Defense League.

John was a well-respected entrepreneur. He was proud of what he did and there are so many stories behind each one. He would say he was glad to "still be alive" from all his adventures and he did acknowledge that he lived a damn good life.

John is survived by his wife (bride) Charlene; his sister and brother-in-law, Rosemary and Michael Polansky of Durham CT; his nephews Michael Jr. and Matthew; and great uncle to many. His father-in-law, Russell Perry and brother-in-law, Rand Perry of Scotland CT. He is predeceased by his mother-in-law, Diana (Podmore) Perry, who he loved so much. He is survived or otherwise predeceased by spotted family-feline companions =^..^= and a wide circle of acquaintances, associates and friends.

Remember him, honor him, he was a contribution to so many.

Those who wish may send memorial donations, please visit the John Max Baulski Memorial Fund .

A memorial service will take place on a future date to be announced, at the Connecticut State Veterans Cemetery, Middletown CT. To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.