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.
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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
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