Richard J. Jaworski

Richard J. Jaworski

Richard John Jaworski, 85, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with cancer.

Richard was born to the late Edmund and Agnes (Kania) Jaworski. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Eleanora "Mickey" (Utecht) Jaworski. He is preceded in death by two brothers, Daniel and Matthew Jaworski and survived by a sister, Florence Veldman of Mishawaka, IN.

He is survived by five daughters, Denise (Steve) Yocom of Leesburg, IN, Michele (Dr. David Piazza) Piazza of Naperville, IL, Karen (Vincent) Hughes of Lafayette, IN, Janine (Roger) Method of New Paris, IN and Francine Jaworski (Curt Paluzzi) of Granger, IN, 8 grandchildren, 1 great granddaughter and 6 step grandchildren.

Richard graduated from South Bend Catholic High School in 1947, during this time he achieved his Eagle Scout Award. He attended Indiana University, Bloomington where he studied Pre-Med before being drafted into the Army. As a PFC in the Army, he proudly served his country in the Korean War. He earned the Korean War & United Nations Army Medals for his service.

When Richard returned, he married his sweetheart Eleanora "Mickey" (Utecht) from Chicago, IL. on May 30, 1953.

Richard was employed at Studebaker Corporation, Continental Can Company, Robert Gair Company, Federal Paper Board and International Paper Company in Elkhart and retired in 1993. He continued as a consultant until 2001. He was a member of the Technical Association of Paper and Pulp Industry (TAPPI).

He was a devoted parishioner of Queen of Peace Parish in Mishawaka for over 54 years. His love was unwavering for the University of Notre Dame, and especially the ND Football team. For 37 years, he was a Supervisor of the ND Stadium Ushers and continued to be a devoted fan until his passing.

Aside from his deep love for his family, Richard enjoyed fishing and hunting, with a passion for fly and bass fishing as well as shooting sports. He was a Life Member of the St. Joseph County Restoration Club and a lifetime supporter of the NRA. Richard was an active, life-member of the Crumstown Conservation Club.

Richard loved life, a good glass of Scotch or wine with a fine cigar. An all American man's man. He was an avid reader, master of crossword puzzles, and a lover of animals. Richard's quick wit and special collection of jokes brought laughter and joy to those around him. His wisdom given to all will remain in our hearts forever and cherished.

The family would like to thank all the wonderful Caregivers, especially daughter Karen Hughes, that assisted them through this difficult journey.

Friends and family may visit from 2-4pm and 6-8pm on Friday, October 17, 2014 in St. Joseph Funeral Home located at 824 S. Mayflower Rd., South Bend, IN 46619 where a Rosary will be prayed. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 4508 Vistula Road, Mishawaka, IN 46544, on Saturday, October 18, 2014 at 10am with visitation at the funeral home at 8am. Military graveside services will follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Osceola, IN.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Michiana Hematology Oncology Center for Advanced Care, Center for Hospice Care, Queen of Peace Church or the American Heart Association.