Kenneth Rybicki

South Bend, IN – Kenneth N. Rybicki, 86, passed away on Thursday, February 26th at Memorial Hospital, South Bend.

Kenneth was born on June 4, 1939, in South Bend, IN, to the late Sylvester and Irene (Genchoff) Rybicki. Ken was preceded in death by his loving wife, Kathe Rybicki, his parents Sylvester and Irene, his in-laws, Stan and Julia Refner, his sister-in-law, Diane Daniels and his son-in-law, Mike Bennett.

Ken was a proud army veteran having obtained his sharpshooter badge, good conduct medal and missileman qualification badge from Fort Sheridan where he was honorably discharged.

On February 27th, 1965, Ken married the love of his life, Kathe Refner. Dad left us one day before what would have been their 61st wedding anniversary. We believe mom called him home to be with her on their "special day". We find peace in the fact that they are together again.

Surviving are his children, Kevin (Rose) Rybicki of Mishawaka, Kelly Collins of Elkhart and Kolleen Bennett of Dowagiac, MI. Six grandchildren, Brittany (Aaron) Lehman, David Stair, Taylor (Jeremy) Drier, Claire Collins, Nicholas Rybicki and Hannah Rybicki. Three great-grandchildren, Callahan, Alexander and Maxwell. His sister Carol Critchlow, brother Robert (Kay) Rybicki, brother-in-law Jim Daniels, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Ken was a diehard Chicago Cubs baseball fan. He loved cheering on and watching Notre Dame Football and Notre Dame women's basketball. He loved putting puzzles together and spending time with his neighbor dog companion, Sadie. Ken was an avid fisherman and told many a fish story to his children and grandchildren reminiscing about his childhood at Robinson Lake. Whether he was fishing with his bass club or spending time at his trailer at Klines Resort, Ken loved being near or on the water and made lifelong friendships because of it. Whether Ken was helping his school aged children with science studies or making flash cards for their math class to giving life advice to his children, he will always be remembered as a great father. More than anything, Ken knew that family and friendships came first, and he will be truly missed by all that knew him.

We would like to give a special thank you to his next-door neighbors, Deb and Katie, for taking such good care of dad and always keeping an eye on him. He cared for you deeply.

Per Ken's wishes there will be no visitation or services held. Hahn Funeral Home has been entrusted with the final arrangements and extends their deepest sympathies to the Rybicki family.

To leave an online condolence or to share a memory, please visit www.hahnfuneralhomes.com