Submitted by: Dan Rich
Feb. 23, 1921 - Nov. 27, 2008
South Bend Tribune 11/30/2008
MISHAWAKA - Walter Koczwara, 87, of Mishawaka, passed away
on Thursday, November 27, 2008, in the Holy Cross Sanctuary,
South Bend, IN, with his loving family at his bedside. Walter was
born on February 23, 1921 in Tuscola County, MI, to the late
Stanley and Anna (Wardzala) Koczwara. Walter married the
former Pearl Davis on June 16, 1953, in Pontiac, MI.
Walter and Pearl shared 55 years of love and commitment to each
other. Surviving Walter is his wife, Pearl and their daughter,
Vicki (Arthur) Schroeder of Mishawaka. Walter was a loving
and caring grandfather to three grandsons, Michael, Jim and Mark
Schroeder of Mishawaka. Also surviving is a brother, Edward
(Virginia) Koczwara of Waterford, MI; and a sister, Mary Fifield
of Virginia. A son, Walter Alan Koczwara preceded Walter in
death, along with five sisters, Lucy, Josie, Jenny, Stella and
Irene, and a brother, Steve. Walter served his country during
World War II in the United States Army receiving an honorable
discharge in April 1946. After the service, Walter worked as a
farm laborer. Walter was an active member of the Post #508 in
Illiopolis, IL. He was also a member of the American Legion.
Walter and Pearl were also members of the St. Pius X Catholic
Church, Granger. Walter and Pearl enjoyed dancing to Polka music.
Walter was also know to "cut a rug" to the music that
his grandsons listen to today. He also liked to fish for a hobby
and enjoyed watching wildlife from his window.
The family will receive friends from 4 to 8 p.m. on Monday, December 1, 2008, in the Bubb Funeral Chapel, 3910 N. Main St., Mishawaka. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 12 noon Tuesday, December 2 with one hour visitation prior at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 52553 Fir Road, Granger, IN. Burial is to follow the service at St. Joseph Valley Memorial Park, Granger. Memorial contributions may be made to the National Kidney Foundation
of Indiana,