Patricia R. Zakrzewski

Patricia R. Zakrzewski, 91, of Mishawaka, IN, passed away Monday, April 22, 2024 in Memorial Hospital surrounded by her loving family. She was born on October 15, 1932 in South Bend, IN to the late Rose (Fuzi) and Anthony Gadacz.  On October 25, 1952, as Patricia R. Gadacz, she married Clarence J. Zakrzewski, who preceded her in death on October 30, 1989.  She was also preceded in death by a great-granddaughter, Emma Stevens and her sister, Christine Jablonski.  Patricia is survived by her daughter, Diane (James) Szulczyk of Mishawaka, IN; two sons, James (Jan) Zakrzewski of New Carlisle, IN and Thomas Zakrzewski of South Bend, IN; nine grandchildren:  Jessica (Lee) Stevens, Nicole Zakrzewski, Heather (Brian) Holdeman, Samantha Dankert, Matthew Zakrzewski, Patrick “PJ” Zakrzewski, Holly Zakrzewski, Ryan Wright Zakrzewski and Stephan Wright Zakrzewski; fourteen great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.  

Patricia retired in 1984 from the South Bend Community School Corporation, where she was employed as a school bus driver. She loved holiday traditions like baking with her children and grandchildren, playing cards, traveling, reading and watching Notre Dame football, and playing slots at he casino.

Visitation will be held Friday, April 26, 2024 from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. in Holy Family Catholic Church, 56405 Mayflower Rd., South Bend, IN.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. with burial to follow in St. Joseph Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in Patricia’s honor may be directed to:  Angel of Hope Memorial Garden (www.angelofhopemichiana.org). 

Kaniewski Funeral Home, South Bend, IN is in charge of arrangements.  To send online condolences, please visit www.kaniewski.com.