John R. Palkovich, Jr., 81, passed away on Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at Memorial Hospital in South Bend. He was born to John R. Palkovich, Sr. and Martina (Lyvers) Palkovich on November 1,1942 in East Chicago, IN.
John met Janice Engle while visiting their parents lake cottages in Koontz Lake, IN in the summer of 1972. They were united in marriage on October 27, 1973 at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Parish in East Chicago. They recently celebrated 50 years of marriage in 2023.
John started his own car dealership, Celebrity Motors, forty-five years ago. John was a man of determination and strong work ethic. He continued working into his eighties.
His family will miss his fun-loving and jovial personality. He could often be found at the family cottage on Koontz Lake enjoying “lake life.” He was a fisherman at heart and loved boating on the water. Every Sunday, their family would spend precious time together making memories.
John was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church for over 35 years.
John is survived by his loving wife, Janice and daughters, Amy (Brian) Jackson and Sara Palkovich (Fiancé – Sherman Yoder); grandchildren, Eli (11) and Caden (7); brother, Dennis (Diane) Palkovich; along with several nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, John Sr. and Martina; sister, Martina “Teena” Phillips; and baby granddaughter, Kaley (Sara).
Visitation will be held on Friday, February 2, 2024 from 1:00-3:00pm EST at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 6835 Union Rd, Plymouth, IN 46563. Funeral services will immediately follow at 3:00pm EST with Pastor Dennis Wenzel officiating.
Burial will take place at Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church, 6835 Union Rd, Plymouth, IN 46563.
A special note of appreciation to Brian Jackson, Sherman Yoder, and Johnny Phillips, his nephew. He thought the world of your actions in his final months. Your kindness is lovingly remembered by his family.
Service
Visitation
Immanuel Lutheran Church
6835 Union Rd, Plymouth, IN 46563
1:00pm - 3:00pm
Funeral Service
Immanuel Lutheran Church
6835 Union Rd, Plymouth, IN 46563
3:00pm
Harley, Rosemary Yoder says
To Janice and family our sincere condolences for the passing of John.Harley& I are so privileged to have known John for even a short few years.Our love & prayers extended to you all Wish we could be there. love you, Harley & Rosemary Yoder. Sherman ‘s parents
Rose Moreno says
So sorry for your loss. My condolences to you and your family!!
Cindy Stutzman says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all! John will be missed by many of us used to seeing him at Immanuel Lutheran Church. May God comfort you all!
Tim, Diane and Kristin Phillips says
Rest in Peace Uncle John. God’s blessings on your beautiful family.
Margaret Kozak says
My sympathy to the family for your loss.
Margaret Kozak