James Edward Niemasik

James Edward Niemasik, 81, passed away at home surrounded by his wife and loving family on August 22, 2024 after a courageous battle with cancer.

James was born in Chicago on May 23, 1943 to the late Max and Stella (Witek) Niemasik. He is also proceeded in death by his in-laws, a brother-in-law and sister-in-law.

Left to share the memory of James is the love of his life, Bernice M. (Tafelski) Niemasik, they married on November 6, 1965.  He is also survived by their children, Susan (Larry) Portolese of Granger, Cynthia (Andrew) Burggraf of South Bend; grandchildren, Lauren (Josh) Kikly, Rachel (Kory) Kolber, Alex Portolese and Amy Portolese; step-grandchildren, Christine (Robbie) Berry, Candice Burggraf, John Burggraf; 6 great-grandchildren; brother-in-law and best buddy, Edward Tafelski, Jr.; sister-in-law, Dorothy Grzeskowiak; several nieces and nephews; several cousins; best friends, Ron Page and Rod McNiell.

James moved from Chicago to Indiana as a young boy. He graduated from Walkerton Lincoln High School in 1961 where he played for the basketball and baseball teams.  James earned a degree in Accounting from IUSB and was a CPA.  James worked for Clark Equipment for 20 years.  He then went on to open The Tax Shop, where he enjoyed servicing his clients for almost 30 years. James enjoyed his visits with Ed, Dorothy, Debbie, Doreen, John and David over the past several weeks.  He was an avid Indiana Basketball, Chicago Cubs, and NASCAR fan. In his younger years, James was a competitive bodybuilder and won many awards. James also served his country in the Army Reserves.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 am, on Saturday, August 31, 2024 at St. Jude’s Catholic Church, 19704 Johnson Rd, South Bend, IN 46614 with a one-hour visitation at the church prior to the mass, Fr. John Delaney will be the officiant. A private family burial will follow.

The family would like to thank Dr. Sweeney and the nurses and staff at the Caring Cove Hospice, along with Dr. Brian Jacobs and Dr. Jose Bufill for their care over the years.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Caring Cove Hospice, 3120 N Home St. Mishawaka, IN 46545 in honor of James E. Niemasik.

Online condolences can be made at sjfh.net.

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