Submitted by: Dan Rich

South Bend Tribune 4/27/2005

Edward P. Gassensmith

Nov. 1, 1934 -- April 26, 2005

Edward Patrick "Pat" Gassensmith, 70, beloved husband of Judith (Shenenberger), passed away at 6:00 a.m. Tuesday, April 26, in Memorial Hospital following an extended illness.

He was born to Norbert and Edna (McCarthy) Gassensmith on November 1, 1934. He was married to Judith Shenenberger on November 10, 1956, who survives along with two daughters, Jessica (Frank) Baker of Noblesville, Ind., and Maria (Brad) Evans of Carmel, Ind.; and three sons, Vincent (Kathy) Gassensmith of Noblesville, David (Ann) Gassensmith of Mishawaka and Kurt (Lisa) Gassensmith of Noblesville. Also surviving are eight grandchildren, Jeremiah Gassensmith of Mishawaka and Sarah Gassensmith of Boston, Paige and Danielle Evans of Carmel, Ind., Krista Baker of Noblesville, and Jordyn, Alexa and Joseph Gassensmith of Noblesville. He is also survived by two step-grandchildren, Nicole and Jason Pfau of Indianapolis. Also surviving are one brother, Norbert "Skip" (Mary Claire) Gassensmith; and two sisters, Mary Jo Wilhelm and Cecelia (Jerry) Florkowski; several nieces and nephews; his mother-in-law, Bay Ruth Shenenberger; and by his brother-in-law, Kurt Shenenberger.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two infant children, Joseph and Jennifer; and by a niece, Kelly Jo Bieganski.

Pat received a master's of education from Indiana University, South Bend, and was a 20-year veteran of the South Bend Police Department from which he retired as a detective sergeant in 1980. He then served as Town Marshall of Walkerton, Ind., for 10 years, retiring in 1993. He was also a math teacher at Jackson Middle School of South Bend and taught at various schools throughout the South Bend and Mishawaka School Corporations. He also served in the U.S. Navy.

At his request there will be no visitation. A memorial Mass will be held at Little Flower Catholic Church on Friday, April 29th, at 10:00 a.m., with Rev. Andre Leveille, CSC, officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to a charity of choice or to Little Flower Catholic Church, 54191 N. Ironwood Drive, South Bend, IN 46635.

Arrangements are being handled by the McGann Funeral Homes, 2313 E. Edison Road, South Bend, Ind.