Rudolph P. “Rudy” Kuzmits, 89, passed away peacefully Saturday, December 15, 2018 in his residence. Rudy was born on April 14, 1929 in South Bend to Jacob and Marie (Ferency) Kuzmits. Jacob and Marie emigrated from Kroatisch Minihof, Burgerland in Austria and settled in South Bend, IN at the beginning of the 20th century.
Rudy worked at Whitehall Laboratories, Inc. for 33 years and retired in the early nineties when the plant closed its doors and moved production to Puerto Rico. He also helped with the family business, Kuzmits Grocery. Upon retiring he would find himself volunteering for numerous charitable organizations including St. Vincent De Paul Society and Meals on wheels.
Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by two brothers; his twin brother Jacob Jr. who died at birth and Frank Kuzmits. Four sisters; Mary Kuzmits, Gizella Kuzmits, Matilda “Tilly” Kuzmits and Lillian Jeziorski. Surviving are three sons; Anthony “Tony” Kuzmits, Greg Kuzmits (Michelle) and Jeff Kuzmits.
One grandson, Jacob Kuzmits and one granddaughter, Claire Kuzmits. Nephews; Gary Kuzmits, Alan Kuzmits, David Jeziorski, John “JJ” Jeziorski. Nieces; Patti Schmatz and Michelle “Shelly” Maternowski.
One sister-in-law, Verna Kuzmits Rudy graduated from Our Lady of Hungary School and Riley High School. He served his country in the U.S. Army as a cook. He loved golfing, fishing, going to the “Boat” and cheering on the Fightn’ Irish football team.
His favorite quote: “God works in mysterious ways” will never be forgotten by those closest to him. One of the highlights of his life was when he was chosen to be an extra in the movie “Rudy” and meeting Sean Astin who played Rudy as well as the real Rudy Ruettiger. His warm smile and friendly spirit will be missed by many friends and family.
A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 22, 2018 in Our Lady of Hungary Catholic Church, 829 W Calvert St., South Bend, IN. Rev. Kevin Bauman will officiate.
Burial with military honors will follow in Highland Cemetery. Family and friends may gather from 9:00 a.m. to 10:45am at Zahoran Funeral Home 1826 Kemble Ave South Bend, In 46613. Memorial contributions may be made by the Donor’s choice of charity to benefit the poor.
To leave an online condolence, please visit our website at www. zahoran.com. The Kuzmits family would like to extend a warm shout-out to the caregivers of Home Instead, Mishawaka especially Ambroise, Karla, Sheila, Brenda, Peter, Philip, Sara, Dawn, Tonia, Laurel, Connie, Sharon, April and Eric…thank you all so much for your compassionate, dedicated, and professional service in caring for our Dad.
We also extend a warm shout-out to Arlette for taking care of Dad while in rehab…thanks for being his advocate and “buddy”! We would be totally remiss if we didn’t mention the truly fantastic folks at the Center for Hospice Care, South Bend especially Nurse Nichole…you are simply, The Best! Hat tip and many thanks to Amber, Alicia, and Miranda for being ready, willing, and able to step up on such short notice.
Finally, we want to extend a warm thank you to Jan and Donna with Visiting Angels for your kind, loving, and dedicated service; allowing Dad the opportunity to stay at home. He was truly appreciative and grateful. Also, our heart-felt thanks and gratitude goes out to neighbors Shane, Gator and Robert who looked after Dad’s house and property when he no longer could himself.
God’s blessings on all!
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