Submitted by: Dan Rich

Bernard J. Van Paemel

Aug. 14, 1912 - March 18, 2003

South Bend Tribune 3/20/2003

Bernard J. "Ben'' Van Paemel, 90, of South Nash Street, passed away at 10:15 a.m. Tuesday, March 18, in Regency Place. Mr. Van Paemel had been employed by Clarks and by Ziker Dry Cleaning. He was a World War II Navy veteran, a member of V.F.W. 9820 and Our Lady of Hungary Church. Ben was born on Aug. 14, 1912, in St. Goristen Destl, Belgium, to Edmund and Sylvia Van Paemel. His family immigrated to Mishawaka, Ind., in 1919.

On May 30, 1940, in South Bend, Ind., he married Mary C. "Peanuts" Vargo. She died on Nov. 28, 1995. He was also preceded in death by a sister, Margaret Van Paemel; and by three brothers, Oscar Van Paemel, Arthur Van Paemel and Camiel Van Paemel.

He is survived by two brothers, George (Josephine) Van Paemel and Andrew Van Paemel, both of Mishawaka; a nephew, Gene (Mary Ann) Van Paemel of Granger, Ind.; and by two nieces, Judy (Jay) Bishop of Grant, Fla., and Linda (Dale) Zbrzezny of Mishawaka. Ben was a loving husband, brother, uncle and friend who will always be remembered for his gentle and respectful ways. He will truly be missed by all who knew him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Friday, March 21, in Our Lady of Hungary Church. Burial will follow at Highland Cemetery. Family and friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. today in the Zahoran Funeral Home, 1826 S. Kemble Ave., where a Rosary will be recited at 3 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Our Lady of Hungary Church or to the American Red Cross.