Stanley Donald Kochanowski

Stanley Donald "Don" Kochanowski, 87, of South Bend entered heavenly rest on Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2024, with his family close by his side. He was born on June 14, 1937, in Elwood, to the late Stanley J. and Helen E. (Pedro) Kochanowski.

Surviving Don are his four children, Mark (Andrea) Kochanowski of Haverhill, MA, Doug (Diana) Kochanowski of Indianapolis, Natalie Kochanowski, and Jamie Kochanowski of Bristol. Grandchildren Owen, Glen, Matt, Julie, Abigail, and Alaina, with a great-granddaughter Victoria, and sister Veronica (George) Vargo of Granger also survive. Don was preceded in death by a daughter, Lisa, brothers John and Michael, and granddaughter, Sheryl.

Don proudly served in the U.S. Marines after graduating high school, embodying the values of discipline and commitment that would shape the rest of his life. He went on to work for 21 years as a salesman at Lochmandy Motors, where his exceptional dedication earned him the Salesman of the Year award 13 times. An active member of American Legion Post 284, Don also had a deep and enduring love for sports. He not only played and managed a local softball team in Elkhart but also became an avid bowler and enjoyed playing pinochle and poker with family and friends. A passionate fan of Notre Dame athletics, Don relished every opportunity to cheer on his favorite teams and loved taking his children and grandchildren to Chicago White Sox games, creating cherished memories with them. Beyond his love for sports, Don had a heart for teaching and instilling important values in his family. He was a man of simple yet profound joys, and his garden reflected that, harvesting fresh produce and sharing it with loved ones. Don was deeply cherished by his family, and his legacy of love, virtue, and commitment will forever be remembered.

In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place with a brief graveside service scheduled for Monday, Oct. 28, at 3 p.m. at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the American Legion Post 284 or Heart to Heart Hospice. The family would also like to share a special thanks to the staff at Creekside Village and Heart to Heart Hospice for their care and support.

To light a virtual candle, share a story of Don's life, or leave a message of comfort for his family, please visit the funeral home website.