WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Damian Witek, age 35, of Elkhart, left this world on August 18, 2026. Damian was born on June 30, 1991 in Three Rivers to Mira Witek and Troy Shuster. His early years were spent in Three Rivers, and he later moved to Elkhart with the family when he was 10. He attended Jimtown Schools in Elkhart.
He loved riding his dirt bike and participated in hill climb races and motocross events in Indiana and Michigan for many years. Every fall Damian would say he was going “hunting,” but it seemed every deer was somehow “scared” away or he couldn’t get a good shot. But, in reality, he didn’t have the heart to shoot any animal — it was all about the peace and quiet of being in the woods.
He loved all animals, but especially cats. There was always a bag of cat food in his car to feed any strays he came upon. He knew all the best spots for mushroom hunting and would always bring home a bag full to share with everyone.
Damian leaves behind his mother, Mira Witek, and stepfather, Randy Smith, of Vandalia; his father, Troy Shuster, of Battle Creek; sister, Randie Witek; stepsister, Val Smith; grandparents, Chuck and Randi Witek of Three Rivers and Larry and Carol Barnett of Sturgis; step-grandparents, Kevin and Shelly Smith of Elkhart; niece, Macie; nephews, Jaxton, Roman, Logan and Bentley; aunt, Mary Ewing of Florida; Brad (Brenda) Stafford of White Pigeon; his girlfriend, Lucia Garrido of South Bend, IN; along with many cousins and friends.
Damian will be missed by everyone who knew him.
Cremation has taken place, and a gathering for family and friends will be held Friday, September 18, at Zion Missionary Church, 1135 E. Hively Ave., Elkhart, IN, from 4 to 8 p.m. in the fellowship hall, where a supper of Damian’s favorite foods will be served.
Anyone wishing to make a donation in Damian’s memory may do so to any of their local animal shelters.
