Submitted by: Mary Jo Koran

SBT -

Patrick J. Bamber

Aug. 18, 1956 - Oct. 13, 2000

CASSOPOLIS - On October 13, 2000, Patrick Joseph "P.J." Bamber, 44, of Leigh Street, passed away in Saint Joseph's Regional Medical Center after a courageous battle with cancer. He is the beloved son of Josephine M. Bamber of Granger, Ind. and the late James J. Bamber.

He is survived by his sister, Josephine "Sis" Elliott (Wib) of Granger; two brothers, James "Butch" Bamber (Shirley) of South Bend and Dennis R. Bamber (Ginny) of Cassopolis, Mich. "P.J." is the much loved uncle of Bridget M. Elliott of Mishawaka, James W. Elliott of Indianapolis, Kate Elliott of South Bend, Nicole Noland of South Bend, and Gary Hull of Dallas, Texas. He is also a great-uncle to Kate's son, Jacob Bamber Elliott.

"P.J." was a graduate of Stanley Clark School and St. Joseph's High School. After high school he became a chef in the family business, the Sunny Italy Cafe, a position held for several years. Later he moved on to open and operate his own business, P.J.'s Catering. In subsequent years he devoted himself as the primary care-giver to his ailing father. More recently he became self-employed to pursue a youthful ambition as a long distance driver.

In his passing, as in his life, "P.J." was surrounded by family and many caring friends, too numerous to count. He touched us all with his kind words and insight, his broad smile and sense of humor, his respect, caring and love. He was a true gentleman, one whom we all will miss.

May God bless you "P.J."

Services will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday in St. Joseph Catholic Church, South Bend. Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Monday in Kaniewski Funeral Home, 3545 N. Bendix Drive, South Bend.

Donations may be made to The American Cancer Society and The Center for the Homeless of South Bend, Ind.