Jerome Paul Ivacic

Jerome Paul Ivacic, 83, passed away on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, in University of Chicago Medical Center. Jerry was born on May 31, 1941, to the late, Paul Charles and Rose (Wudi) Ivacic. He was also preceded in death by brother-in-law, John Carlson.
On August 5, 1972, Jerry married Janet (Griesinger). She survives along with son, Eric Paul (Alexis) Ivacic; daughter, Nicole Marie (Timothy) Primrose; grandchildren, Braden, Lucas, Addeline, Ameila, Orion, and Axle; brothers and sisters: Judy Carlson of Arpin Wisconsin, Donald Ivacic of Rockford Illinois, Ronald (Debra) Ivacic of Spencer Wisconsin, James (Lynn) Ivacic of Loyal Wisconsin, and Dorthy (Gerry) Marten of Unity Wisconsin.
Jerry led a life with many interests and accomplishments. While he was still young, he moved from Spencer, WI and moved to Rensselaer, IN to study for the priesthood at St. Joseph's. He also attended The University of Notre Dame where he met Janet Griesinger, who he made his wife in 1972. In any conversation that Jan's name would be spoke, he would light up at the thought of the "the love of his life." Jerry enjoyed family gatherings and always stayed connected with all his family, near and far. Many times, during conversation, Jan was brought up in these conversations with family and that familiar sparkle would shine in his eye.
The Catholic Faith was one of the most important things to Jerry. Before Jan, he had wanted to become a priest. He spent time reading his Bible and making sure his children were raised in the religion he loved. He was always a gentle giant that when he said he was praying for you, you knew his prayers were truly for you.
Outside of his love for his faith and his family, Jerry loved business. He was an excellent businessman. Shortly after marriage, he opened his own paint and wall covering store in South Bend, IN. After a few years in business, he ventured into real estate. A quote heard often from Jerry was, "some people collect objects, I collect houses." He loved everything about owning investment properties.
Another passion Jerry had was sports. He especially loved sports that involved his grandchildren. He loved football, baseball, the Green Bay Packers, the Atlanta Braves and anything that was competitive. He could talk about sports for hours and was always so proud of his grandchildren's sporting and life accomplishments.
Visitation will be 4-7pm on Thursday, January 2, 2024, in Palmer Funeral Home – Guisinger Chapel 2718 S. Michigan St. South Bend, IN 46614. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11am on Friday, January 3, 2024, in the Cathedral of St. Matthew 1701 Miami St. South Bend, IN 46614, with visitation beginning at 10am. Burial will take place at St. Joseph Valley Memorial Park at a later date.
Condolences for the family may be made at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.
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