Ernest Wawrzyniak

Ernest Wawrzyniak, 91, of South Bend, Indiana, passed away on March 11, 2026, at the Center for Hospice Care Raclin House in Mishawaka.

Born on February 18, 1935, in Hammond, Indiana, to the late Martin and Anna (Stansik) Wawrzyniak, Ernest married the love of his life, Patricia Skowera, on June 9, 1956. She preceded him in death on July 16, 2019. He was also preceded in death by his son, Daniel Wawrzyniak; his brother, Eugene Wawrzyniak; and his sisters, Dorothy Wawrzyniak and Evelyn Priester.

Ernest proudly served his country in the United States Army. A longtime parishioner at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, he worked for Studebaker and Bendix Corp. before retiring from the United States Postal Service after 27 years. He was a member of the Chain-O-Lakes Conservation Club, Bowlers Country Club, NALC, and American Legion Post 284. Ernest found great joy in fishing and golfing with his buddies and son, traveling to Ocean Isle, North Carolina, with his wife, and taking casino trips. A natural athlete and skilled craftsman, he cherished being outdoors and spending time with his family.

He is survived by his son, Michael (Carla) Wawrzyniak; daughter-in-law, Linda Wawrzyniak; sister-in-law, Joan Wawrzyniak; grandchildren, Kelli Santa, Aubrey Schrock, Raulyn (Lexi) Wawrzyniak, Branden (Chloe) Wawrzyniak, Taryn Wawrzyniak, Corbyn Wawrzyniak, and Brelynn Wawrzyniak; great-grandchildren, Alex Zelasko, Quintin Zelasko, Conner Truex, Malcolm Seward, Remy Wawrzyniak, Emmy Schrock, Avery Schrock, and Hunter Schrock; and great-great-granddaughter, Kenlsey Truex.