Renata "Rene" Kazmierczak

Rene, 93, was born on May 17, 1930, in South Bend to Stanley and Mary (Lyczynski) Kurpiewski. She was a lifelong resident of South Bend and graduated from Washington High School.  She is preceded in death by one brother, Edward Kurpiewski, and two sisters, Monica Szweda and Florence Roggeman whom she has deeply missed.

While in high school, Rene met her husband and lifetime dance partner, Richard D. Kazmierczak who she lovingly cared for during an illness until his death in 2010. They were married on August 11, 1951 and shared their lives for 59 years.  Together, Richard and Renata raised 5 children, Kristine Kazmierczak, David (Sally) Kazmierczak, Paul Kazmierczak, Dianne Kazmierczak and Mary Mortensen who all reside in South Bend. 

Rene was whole-heartedly dedicated to her 6 grandchildren, Jennifer Kazmierczak (Mishawaka), Andrew (Sarah) Kazmierczak (Carmel, IN), Nicholas Kazmierczak (Abilene, TX), Faith Kazmierczak (South Bend), Mitch (Katie McNamara) Mortensen (South Bend) and Riley Mortensen (South Bend). Their memories are filled with great stories, special meals, good times and priceless moments with Grandma.  There is a part of her in each one of them.

Rene worked for the SBCSC for 34 years and retired from HealthQuest Corporation after 9 years.  She was a longtime member of St. Mary’s of the Assumption Catholic Church and is a current parishioner of St. Jude Catholic Church.  She spent many years volunteering in church clubs and functions and always participated in the activities of her children and grandchildren.  Rene also enjoyed socializing with many close friends, getting coffee, knitting and reading.

After a long, joyful life demonstrating love in every way possible, Rene rejoined her husband on Father’s Day.  We like to think they are dancing again. 

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Southern Care Hospice nurses Ashley and Taylor and aide Amy.  Additional thanks to Always Best Care caregivers Sulin, Morgan and Esther.  The care and compassion you showed to our mother was meaningful.

Friends may visit with the family from 3:00pm-7:00pm, Sunday June 25, 2023 at St. Joseph Funeral Home, 824 S Mayflower Rd, South Bend, with a rosary to be prayed at 3:30pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00am, Monday, June 26, 2023 at St. Jude’s Catholic Church, 19704 Johnson Rd, South Bend, IN 46614. Burial will immediately follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, South Bend.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Alzheimer's & Dementia Services of Northern Indiana, Inc., 111 Sunnybrook Ct, South Bend, IN 46637, or SouthernCare Hospice, 1626 E Day Rd, Mishawaka, IN 46545.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.sjfh.net.

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