WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Richard Paul Niedbalski, age 72, of Sturgis, passed away Sunday, January 17th, 2010 at his home. He was born in Terra Haute, IN on September 5, 1937, the son of Eugene and Clara (Klosowski) Niedbalski. In 1955, Richard graduated from St. Joseph High School in South Bend. He served in the US Navy. On July 5, 1975 Richard married Lois Ann Purta in South Bend. She preceded him in death on Dec. 6, 1999. Richard retired from Challenger Company Elkhart, IN and previously worked at D&J Body Shop, Nemeth’s Body Shop, and Mersits, all in South Bend.
Richard enjoyed vacationing in the Upper Peninsula and also loved restoring cars. He was a member of the America Legion #73, in Sturgis and the Disabled American Veterans.
Surviving Richard are his daughters Marilyn Kaye (John) Lalonde of Granger, IN, Nanette (William) Esler of Niles, Deanna Hanks of Mishawaka, IN, sons Michael (Julie) Niedbalski of Bremen, IN, Rick (Sarah) Niedbalski of South Bend, IN and stepson Raymond (Tammy) Sheneman of Niles. Also surviving are his 15 grandchildren; Jennifer, Tanya, Adam, Heather, Maya, Erin, Keri, Lucas, Karissa, Mitchell, Margaret, James, Kyle, Anthony and Shaun.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Lois Niedbalski, and stepson David Sheneman.
Relatives and friends will be received Tuesday from 6-8 pm at the Eley Funeral Home in Constantine. Funeral Mass will be held Wednesday at 10:00 am at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in White Pigeon with Father Richard Altine officiating. Interment will be at Constantine Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Sturgis Hospice. Online messages may be left for the family at www.eleyfuneralhomes.com.
