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Edmund R. Kaplon, 92 years old, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at his residence in New Carlisle.
Edmund was born on October 5, 1933 in South Bend, to the late Peter and Irene (Stempin) Kaplon. On October 9, 1954, Edmund married the love of his life, Marlene (Lisiecki) Kaplon, who preceded him in death. Along with his loving wife of 70 years, Edmund is preceded in death by his daughter, Kimberly (Kaplon) Bader–Gozzola; grandchildren, Rodney Harris, Nicole Kaplon, and Brian Harris; daughter-in-law, Nancy Kaplon; sister, Loretta Graczyk; and brother, Edwin Kaplon.
Left to cherish the memory of Edmund is his son, Kevin Kaplon; grandchildren, Lynn (James) Fisher, Jamie (Josh) Friesen, Eric (Miranda) Bader, Julie Gozzola, Andrea (Jeremy) Bolton, and Melissa (Cameron) Seibert; great-grandchildren, Gavin, Trevor, and Faith Fisher, Olivia and Alexis Friesen, Lily and Lucy Bader, Maddox, Eli, and Jonah Bolton; brother, Richard (Kathy) Kaplon; and sons-in-law, James Gozzola and Dale Bader. He is also survived by his precious dog, Buddy.
Edmund was a devoted parishioner of St. Stanislaus Kostka Parish, where he faithfully served as an usher for many years. He was also a proud member of PNA Lodge 3078. Edmund found great joy in playing his trumpet and accordion with numerous polka bands throughout the years, sharing his love of music with family, friends, and the community. He enjoyed gardening and farming, and could often be found playing cards or dominoes, working on word searches and puzzles, or creating latch hook projects. He also worked as a school bus driver for New Carlisle schools for 12 years. Known for his wonderful sense of humor and friendly nature, Edmund brought laughter and warmth wherever he went. Above all, he treasured time spent with his family, creating countless memories that will be lovingly remembered by those who knew and loved him.
The family would like to thank all the exceptional staff that took care of Edmund: Bev, Tajera, Angie, Lori, Pam, Mallory, and Debbie.
Visitation for Edmund will be held from 4:00pm – 8:00pm Friday, May 29, 2026 at St. Joseph Funeral Home, 824 S. Mayflower Rd., with a Rosary to be prayed at 4:00 pm. A Funeral Mass will take place at 11:00am Saturday, May 30, 2026 with an hour of visitation held prior all at St. Joseph Funeral Home. Burial will immediately follow at St. Joseph Cemetery with a funeral luncheon to follow the committal.
Donations in honor of Edmund R. Kaplon may be made out to Pet Refuge, 4626 S Burnett Dr, South Bend, IN 46614 or donor’s choice.
Online condolences can be made at sjfh.net.
To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.
Pet Refuge
4626 S Burnett Dr, South Bend IN 46614
Web: https://www.petrefuge.com/donate-notes