Erwin S. Kalka

Dec. 2, 1921 - May 9, 1997

SOUTH BEND - Erwin S. Kalka, 75, passed away after an extended illness at 3 p.m. on Friday, May 9, in St. Joseph's Medical Center.

Erwin was born to Stanley and Maryanna (Szalkowski) Kalka on Dec. 2, 1921, in South Bend, Ind.

On April 26, 1945, during a military service, he wed Rose A. Bentkowski, who survives. He is also survived by a sister, Hattie Lukasiewicz, and by a brother, Casimer Kalka, both of South Bend.

Mr. Kalka was preceded in death by two sisters, Helen Wadzinski and Bertha Prentkowski; and by six brothers, John, Joseph, Frank, Clem, Larry and Bernie Kalka.

Mr. Kalka was the first drum major at Washington High School. He was an active member of the St. Mary Polish National Catholic Church. Mr. Kalka was a member of the church band, and directed the church choir for 50 years, retiring in May of 1996. He was president of the National Board of Directors of United Choirs, and was elected to the Supreme Council of the church. He was also instrumental in establishing the Priest Pension Fund.

Over the years he was honored in many ways. He received the coveted State of Indiana Council of the Sagamores of the Wabash Award. He was an area Toastmasters Speech Contest winner, and was a Representative of the YMCA Board of Directors. He was also a member of the Presbyterian Players, acting in many productions of James Lewis Cassidy. He was a member and president of the Achievement Forum and the Polish American Business and Professional Mens Association.

He was a graduate of the Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, and served in the United States Navy.

Cremation and burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery. A memorial Mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday in St. Mary Polish National Catholic Church, with Rev. Charles Zawistowski officiating.

May God be with you always.

St. Joseph Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.