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Ronald Schmanske Obituary
Aug. 07, 1936 - Nove. 23, 2016
ELKHART - Ronald E. Schmanske, 80, of Elkhart, peacefully passed away November 23, 2016, at his home.
He was born Aug. 7, 1936, in South Bend, IN to John F. and Johanna (Kravontka)Schmanski.
On May 3, 1958, he married Carolyn (Dempsey) Schmanske in South Bend,
IN.
He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Schmanske, of Elkhart, a daughter, Dana (John) Soptich of Elkhart and a son, R. Anthony (Leslie) Schmanske of Friendswood, TX, five grandchildren, Christopher, Alex and Mary Soptich, and Hannah and Jacob Schmanske. He was also a loving uncle to many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Dorothy (Robert) McNerney and a brother John F. (Frances) Schmanski, Jr.
Ronald graduated from South Bend Central High School in 1955. He spent his entire career in the newspaper business starting as a paper boy for The South Bend Tribune. After serving in the United States Army he went back to The South Bend Tribune and worked in various positions. In 1970 he went to work for The Elkhart Truth and retired from there as Director of Marketing & Public Relations in 2004. He was creator and director of The Great Race for 35 years and was past president of several organizations including the Noon Kiwanis Club and was a member of St. Thomas Catholic Church.
Of his many achievements, he was most noted for contributing his time and talent to the Elkhart community. Ronald enjoyed running and was proud to have completed many races including the Boston Marathon.
Per his wishes, his body was donated to Indiana University School of Medicine.
A memorial Mass will take place at St. Thomas Catholic Church, Elkhart, IN, at 3:00 PM AM, Saturday, December 17, 2016.
Memorial contributions may be given to the Center for Hospice Care,
22579 Old U.S. 20 East, Elkhart, IN 46516
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ronald Schmanske
Stan & Linda Skinner
December 9, 2016
Our prayers & sincere expression of loss to Carolyn and family. Ron was a great guy to every organization he served, as well as every person that he came in contact with! He was chairman of our board of directors for this elkhart handbell performing group, The Jubilee Ringers of Elkhart County. Without his caring guidance & council, advertising expertise and genuine friendship, we would not have been able to continue our musical commitment for the past 30 years. A leader of men! Now, a leader of angels! Ron is in our hearts forever. God bless you all. And, thank you for sharing him with so many people.
Ceci Hayes
December 6, 2016
Sorry to hear of your loss, I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs to Dana, Mary and the family.
Mrs. Hayes, St. Thomas school
Laurie Bradley
December 5, 2016
So sorry For your loss. I was Ron's Nurse at Dr Mokfi's Office. He was a wonderful person. May he RIP Amen.
Arlene Mc Nerney
November 28, 2016
I was deeply sadden by the news of Ron's passing. My heartfelt condolences to you and your family.
Marjorie Eger
November 27, 2016
Ron was a great companion and friend at The Elkhart Truth. I have such Precious memories of him stopping at my desk to chat and have fun. He did a lot for spirit at our newspaper. Marjorie Eger
Marla Miller
November 27, 2016
One of a kind. You will be missed Ron. I will never forget how you believed in me when I was just a new college grad setting out on my career.
Lori Deak Ryan
November 27, 2016
God bless you Ron. I will never forget you. You were a real gem
Lori Deal Ryan, Goshen IN
Sandi Divietro
November 27, 2016
Prayers and sincerest thoughts of sympathy to Ron's family. May you rejoice in the fact that he was truly a unique one of a kind man, respected and loved by many. I feel honored to have known him and he always will remain one of my favorite people.
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