John F. Berzanskis, Sr., 90, of Rolling Prairie, IN, died Sunday, June 2, 2013, at Brentwood Senior Living Center, LaPorte.
John was born in Chicago on March 3, 1923, to Jonas and Onna (Tolenitis) Berzanskis. He spent most of his life in Chicago, where he raised his family and began the family business AMS Mechanical Systems. At the age of 55 he and his wife Mary Ann (Shilney), who preceded him in death on May 5, 1998, moved to Kona, Hawaii, where he spent 32 wonderful years and became known for his strong work ethic, entrepreneurial nature and large but gentle handshake. John relocated to Rolling Prairie in 2010 and spent his remaining years close to his children and grandchildren.
John served his country in World War II as a member of the Merchant Marines.
Surviving are his beloved daughters, Janine (Herman) Meyers and Judith (Cook) Berzanskis both of LaPorte; his son, John F. (Sandy) Berzanskis Jr. of Palos Park, IL; friend and caretaker, Nikki Shafer; grandchildren, Jennifer (Marc) Heniser, Patrick (Erin) Baugh, Jake (Jenny) Baugh, Jamyn (Dave) Simonik, McGee (Michael) Jacobson, Domini and John Robert Berzanskis; and 17 great-grandchildren.
There will be no public funeral service. A small private memorial service for the family will be scheduled at a later date. The Berzanskis family is asking that you keep their father and family in your prayers. Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the hospice center that so caringly kept John comfortable throughout his most difficult time: Harbor Light Hospice, 1608 E. Day Rd., Mishawaka, IN, 46545 or www.harborlighthospice.com.
Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP, as well as at www.cutlerfuneralhome.com.