Ralph J. Szymanski

Ralph J. Szymanski, 84, of South Bend, Indiana passed away at 5:00 p.m. Saturday, April 11, 2026, in his home. Ralph was born September 7, 1941 in South Bend, Indiana to John and Selma (Matuszak) Szymanski, who both preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Donald. Ralph graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1959 followed by training at Acme Tool & Die. He worked as a Tool & Die Designer for 8 years and followed his passion and became a Firefighter on the South Bend Fire Department for 31 years. Ralph was the owner of Dew Brite Furniture and Carpet Cleaning and also worked at O’Brien Fitness Center and finished his work as a Bailiff at the Juvenile Justice Center.  During his career he enjoyed his colleagues and made lifetime friendships. On December 28, 1963 in St. Adalbert Church he married Ann Marie Kromkowski, who survives. They were married for 62 years. Ralph is also survived by his daughter, Kim (Chris) Tordi of Mishawaka, Indiana;  two sons, Michael Szymanski of Mishawaka, Indiana and Keith (Ann) Szymanski of Carmel, Indiana; eight grandchildren,  Sara (Jackson) Beckman, Maria (Austin) Gregor, Gina (Michael) Cataldo, Joe (Megan) Tordi and John Tordi; and Andrew, Isabella and Sophia Szymanski; 4 great-grandchildren, Henry, Avery, Francesca and Anthony;  his brother Roy (Mary Jane) Szymanski; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, April 15, 2026 in Christ the King Catholic Church. A visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday in the Kaniewski Funeral Home, 3545 N. Bendix Drive, South Bend, Indiana, where a rosary will be prayed at 4:00 p.m.  Ralph enjoyed parties with friends and family which left many happy memories. The family wants to express their deepest appreciation for the care received from Firefly Home Healthcare, Healthwin Physical Therapy, and Center for Hospice Care.   Memorial Contributions may be directed to the Ronald McDonald House, 610 N. Michigan Street, South Bend, Indiana 46601 or the St. Vincent de Paul Society, 520 Cresent Avenue, South Bend, Indiana 46617.

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