Henry T. Rakowski

Henry T. Rakowski, 80, of Niles, MI, passed away September 30, 2021 at Memorial Hospital, South Bend.  He was born on April 26, 1941, in Buchanan, MI, to the late Sylvester and Hildegarde (Winkle) Rakowski.  On January 27, 1961, folowing graduation, he married his Central High School sweetheart, Janet Schrader, who survives.  He is also survived by his daughters, Donna Rakowski of Mishawaka, IN and Kim Rakowski of Niles, MI; his sons, Tim Rakowski of St. Joseph, MI and Rick Rakowski of Venice, FL; six grandchildren, Michelle Turfler of North Port, FL, Timothy Rakowski of Elkhart, IN, Brian Garrelts also of Elkhart, Justin Rakowski of South Bend, Nik Rakowski of FL, Rischad Rakowski of Venice, FL and by 8 great-grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his brother, Albert Rakowski.  Henry worked as a Route Salesman for Pepsi Cola Bottling for 40 years with perfect attendance  (which he was proud of), before retiring in 2006.  He was a lifelong avid fisherman, devoted husband and father of 61 years, and a United States Air Force veteran. He especially enjoyed family gatherings and telling hundreds of stories of things he had seen and heard in his lifetime. In his spare time he cared meticulously for his property and garden. Henry could always be found selflessly helping anyone and everyone, whatever their need. A celebration of life will be held at 3 p.m.on Sunday October 17, 2021 at Clay United Methodist Church, 52866  N. Ironwood Rd., South Bend, IN 46635.  Everyone is welcome to come and share their memories and pictures of Henry. Memorial contributions may be made to The Prostate Cancer Foundation at www.pcf.org. To send online condolences, please visit www.kaniewski.com.

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