James Joseph Szymanski

1952 - 2017

JAMES JOSEPH SZYMANSKI
James Joseph Szymanski, age 64, passed away peacefully Wednesday, March 29th at 9:30 p.m. after a short battle with multiple myeloma cancer. James was a longtime Munster resident, formerly of Calumet City and Chicago IL. Beloved husband to Lorraine Szymanski for 35 years; devoted father of Karen (Mike) Rathkey, Kenneth (Kristin Frank) and Brian (Kelly) Szymanski; loving "Papa" of Ryan Rathkey; son of the late Edward W. Szymanski and late Helene C. (late Ralph) McGrath; dear brother of Carol Mitchell, Jackie (James) Pietraszak, and Charles (Linda) Szymanski; brother-in-law to the late Ronald (Joan) Zega, the late Barbara Ferkich (late Jerry Ferkich), Edward (Patricia) Zegaczewski, Judith (late Roy) Riley. He was a loved uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend to countless others. He was born on April 19, 1952 in Chicago, IL, where he lived on the south side. James graduated from Mt. Carmel High School in 1970, then joined the United States Marine Corps and was honorably discharged with the rank of Corporal. He then began his career at General Motors where he retired after 35 years. James was also an active member of the UAW, serving as a union representative. James was a man you could rely on and always put others first. He was a true "Mr. Fixt-it" and no challenge was too big for him to attempt to repair. He was also the definition of a family man. James went to steak and lobster dinners nearly every Friday with his daughter when she was young. He would come straight from work to go camping with his sons on weekends and had fun working on their cars with them. He cherished going on walks with his darling Lori and their dog Gizmo. Over the years, he was passionate about various things, from his treasured garden, fishing and entering many, many contests. James was an avid lottery player and cherished capturing every memorable moment on film. A great life that was cut far too short, but was filled with countless blessings His services will be held at Kish Funeral Home: 10000 Calumet Ave, Munster IN, 46321. Visitation is Monday April 3, 2017 from 2:00- 8:00 p.m. Family and friends will meet at the funeral Parlor by 10:30 a.m. to pay final respects before Mass Tuesday April 4, 2017 12:00 p.m. at St. Thomas Moore Church 8501 Calumet Ave, Munster, IN 46321. In lieu of flowers, checks to the Humane Society (with memo for James Szymanski) may be made. www.kishfuneralhome.net