James R. Palus, Sr.

James R. Palus, Sr., 92 years old, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, March 13, 2024 at Center for Hospice in Mishawaka.

James was born on February 16, 1932 in South Bend to the late Stanley Paluszewski and Mary Roberts. On April 19, 1952, James married the love of his life, Mary Ann (Piechorowski), who preceded him in death. James is also preceded in death by his brother, Stanley Paluszewski.

Left to cherish their memories are his children, Debra (Brian) Emmons, David (Marcia) Palus, Robert (Rosalyn) Palus, and James (Doreen) Palus, Jr.; his grandchildren: David, Devin, Shaun, Justin, Jessica, Peyton, Adrienne, Erika, Mallory and J.R.; and great-grandchildren, Isabella, Ellison, Allegra, Giselle, Joseph, Patrick, Finn, Aislyn, Warren, Emmett, Levi, Adaline, Brooklyn, as well as three more great-granddaughters.

James was incredibly hard working. After honorably serving his country in the United States Army, he worked for South Bend Lathe for over 30 years, as well as multiple other jobs on top of that. In his free time, he would work on restoring and fixing anything that was broken around the house. James loved everything to do with cars. He even worked at gas stations and various shops just so he could work and maintain vehicles for others. James always drove a Cadillac and would trade in his cars every two years. Recently, he wanted to get a Model A to restore and rebuild it but never was able to do it. James also enjoyed wood-working. He would make wooden toys for his children and grandchildren. Above all, he loved his family – especially his grand and great-grandchildren.

Friends and family will be received Monday March 18, 2024 from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm at St. Joseph Funeral Home, 824 S Mayflower Rd, South Bend, IN 46619. A Funeral Service will be celebrated at 11:00am, Tuesday March 19,2024 with an hour visitation prior, all at the funeral home. Entombment with military honors will immediately follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, South Bend.

Donations in honor of James R. Palus, Sr. may be made out to American Heart Association, PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692.

Online condolences can be made at sjfh.net.

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