Search by Name

Search by Name

Ronald Michalski Obituary

July 20, 1934 - Jan. 2, 2013
SOUTH BEND - Ronald W. Michalski, 78, of South Bend, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 2, 2013, in St. Joseph Hospital, Mishawaka, with his loving family at his side. Ron, affectionately known as "Chick" by his close friends and family, was born July 20, 1934, in South Bend, a son of the late Cas and Virginia (Kuberski) Michalski. He graduated from South Bend Catholic High School and was also a graduate of Acme Tool and Die. During the Korean War, he defended his country. He served four years in the U.S. Navy as an MP, and as a torpedo man on the USS Fred T. Berry. Ron started out his career as a firefighter. His first assignment was driving the back of the tiller truck. He was also a scuba diver for the department during its early development. After 24 years of being a fireman, he worked at Notre Dame as a custodian. Ron married Dolores Haluda on November 9, 1957, at St. Adalbert's Church. The couple celebrated their 55th anniversary last year. Family members include four children, Mike (Peggy) Michalski, David Michalski, Kathy Michalski and Chris (Lindy) Michalski, all of South Bend. Ron also leaves 3 granddaughters, Nicole (Dustin) Charrer, Alie Michalski and Ashley Segety; and 5 great-grandchildren, Justyce Stephens, and James and Brooklyn Hankin, as well as Liam Sharrer and Emma Michalski. His 2 brothers also survive: William (Connie) Michalski and David (Esther) Michalski; and brothers and sisters-in-law, Ray & Betty Haluda, and Pat and Loretta Williams. He has many nieces and nephews. Ron was preceded in death by 2 infant boys, Michael and Christopher. As per his request, Ron's body has been donated to the Indiana University School of Medicine for the advancements of medical education. We would like to thank Dr. Rafat Ansari and Dr. Ewa Bialikiewicz for never giving up hope, and sustaining his life for so long through his long years of battling cancer. A memorial Mass will be held on Jan. 8, 2012, at 10 a.m. in St. Adalbert's Church, 2505 Grace St., South Bend. The family requests no flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Adalbert's Church or to the charity of the donor's choice.

Published by South Bend Tribune from Jan. 6 to Jan. 7, 2013.
34465541-95D0-45B0-BEEB-B9E0361A315A

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for Ronald Michalski

Not sure what to say?





So sorry for your great loss,Ron was such
a great guy... God's blessings & peace be
with your family... John & Lydia

John & Lydia Kolacz

January 30, 2013

It seems so surreal dad, I can't believe it still. However it is easier knowing you are no longer suffering. The picture I posted was before you were stricken with the disease of Lymphoma stage 4 back to a time when things were better. I know things are better where you are now, as I know as good as a friend, father, uncle, grandfather and husband you were that with the raising of your hand as you took your last breaths there is no doubt you are in a good place. As well as in my heart and a lot of others, you continue to live on this plane. This is and has been hard on a lot of us; however healing will take time and you taught me to be strong so I will do my best to keep my head up. I miss, love and will talk to you soon.

Chris Michalski

January 19, 2013

I am so sorry for your family's loss.

Andrew Abrams

January 8, 2013

Words can not express my condolences for a wonderful man & delightful family. Be well...

Shannon

January 8, 2013

My Fondest memories of uncle Ronnie were riding with him in the dairy delivery truck when I was little and walking down Portage ave. to visit him at the fire station. Rest in Peace Uncle Ronnie!

Tim and Cathy Schwenk

January 8, 2013

I love you pops and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for the great father you are. There are so many great memories and good times that we shared. Thank you for showing me how to be strong, although at a time like this it becomes very hard to live up to it. Miss you my buddy/best friend and father

Chris Michalski

January 7, 2013

Delores, Our thoughts are with you and your family today.

Lana Meredith

January 7, 2013

David, so sorry to hear about your dad. May you and your family find strength and peace.

Susan Zimmerman

January 6, 2013

Madison Family sending their Prayers to your family.

Barb Madison

January 6, 2013

May the eternal promise of Jesus bring you comfort, strength and peace during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

January 6, 2013

Rest in well deserved Peace, Chick.

Pat & Loretta

January 6, 2013

Deepest sympathies from the Winkowski cousins.
Jeannie and Jack Pettet
Edwina and James Ward
Angela and John Felabom

Ron was the ring bearer for the wedding of our parents, Ed and Mary Winkowski.

Angela Felabom

January 6, 2013

sincere condolences for your loss,prayers for you and your family. Sincerely,Barbara Backs

barbara backs

January 6, 2013

Atthe Fire Station,Portage Ave in the 80's Ron and I had many a work days to talk.It was a priviledge to be his Friend. Bob Nawrocki

Robert Nawrocki

January 6, 2013

Showing 1 - 14 of 14 results

Make a Donation
in Ronald Michalski's name

Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

Memorial Events
for Ronald Michalski

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Ronald's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Ronald Michalski's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more