Barbara (Zmyslo) Waite

Barbara J. (Zmyslo) Waite, 87 years old, peacefully passed away on Thursday, May 14, 2026 surrounded by her family at her home. 

Barbara was born on June 11, 1938 in South Bend, to the late Stephen and Pauline (Kucharski) Zmyslo. 

On March 12, 1977, Barbara married her loving husband of 49 years, William Waite, who survives. Barbara is also survived by her two sons: Kevin (Laurie) Kaczmarek and Kyle (Lisa) Kaczmarek; grandchildren: Mitchell Barrier, Trisha Kaczmarek, Kailey Kaczmarek, and Korey Kaczmarek; and great grandchildren: Gabriella Barrier, Malachi Barrier, and Penelope Gillum. 

Barbara found joy in life’s simple pleasures and the love of her family. She especially cherished camping trips to Weko Beach since the 80s. Her favorite part of all those years were creating endless memories with her grandchildren. Barbara had a passion for gardening and took pride in caring for both her flowers and home she cherished so much. She enjoyed her slot machines at the casinos and spending time with her two Yorkie dogs. Above all, Barbara treasured the time she shared with her family whom she loved deeply. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1:00p.m. on Friday, May 22nd, 2026 at St. John The Baptist Catholic Church: 3526 St. Johns Way, South Bend, with a one-hour visitation prior to the mass at the church. Inurnment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery. 

Online condolences can be made at sjfh.net 

Flowers can be sent to Saint Joseph’s Funeral Home: 824 S Mayflower Road, South Bend, IN 46619

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.