Sep.
28, 1982 - Jan. 5, 2010SOUTH BEND - Christopher James Bankowski, 27, passed away Tuesday at 4:22 p.m. at Indiana University Medical Center, Indianapolis, with his family by his side. He was born September 28, 1982, in South Bend, the son of James E. and Julianne E. (Varga) Bankowski. They both survive along with his sister, Karen E. (Don) Thornburg; a niece, Emily Thornburg; paternal grandmother, Dolores Bankowski; and two close friends, Annie Shepard and Chris Edwards, all of South Bend. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Harry Bankowski; and maternal grandparents, Edward and Tillie Varga. Chris also leaves behind his cherished pets, Bosco and Molly. Chris attended the South Bend public schools and graduated from John Adams High School, Holy Cross College and IUSB. He was currently doing graduate work at Ball State University. He was a member of St. Anthony's Parish, and was a United Way Poster Child for St. Joseph County when he was a child. He was a huge sports fan. The Cubs and Notre Dame were among his favorite teams. He also loved all music and played the violin. He had worked as a substitute teacher in the South Bend Community School Corporation and as a correspondent for the South Bend Tribune. Friends may call from 4-8 PM on Friday in Saint Anthony de Padua Catholic Church. The Mass will be held in the church on Saturday at 11:00 AM, where friends may call one hour prior. The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and caregivers who helped take such good care of Chris over the years. His wonderful spirit, love of life and strong will will be missed by many. The family requests to honor Chris's memory in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Spina Bifida Association, 4590 MacArthur Blvd., Washington, DC, 20007; or to LOGAN, PO Box 1049, South Bend, IN 46624. To send condolences to the family, please visit www.mcgannhay.com. Arrangements are being made by McGann Hay Funerals |Cremations | Gatherings, University Chapel.