Leola Ruth Zdoniak

Leola Ruth Zdoniak, 83 years old, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 at Briar Cliff Nursing Home Facility.

Leola was born on August 18, 1942 in South Bend, to the late Melvin Clarence and Clara Esther Frick. She is also preceded in death by a son, Michael Theodore Zdoniak; two brothers, Melvin & Everett Frick; her in-laws, Chester and Irene Zdoniak; a sister-in-law, Brenda Frick; and brothers-in-law, Melvin Launer and Henry Zdoniak.

Left to cherish the memory of Leola is her loving husband of 57 years, Ted Zdoniak; daughters, LaMinda Wilson and Amelia Ruth Zdoniak; grandchildren, Alex Bryant Wilson, Laminda Paige Foree, and Keyshawn Jordan Foree; great-grandchildren, Brielle Foree and Michael Zdoniak; as well as her siblings, Eric Frick and Elizabeth Launer.

Leola attended Broadway Christion Parish, Northwest United Methodist Church, and most recently St. John the Baptist. She was an incredible cook and baker – most known for her delicious cakes and pies. Along with her cooking skills, she also was known for her sewing skills – creating intricate clothing for dolls. Leola was also very generous and gave back by volunteering at soup kitchens on Wednesday. Above all, she loved her family – especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Visitation for Leola will be 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm Sunday, October 5, 2025 in St. Joseph Funeral Home, 824 S. Mayflower Rd., with a Funeral Service to begin at 5:00 pm.

Donations may be made in honor of Leola Ruth Zdoniak to South Bend Animal Resource Center, 521 Eclipse Pl, South Bend, IN 46628

Online condolences can be made at sjfh.net.

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