Ronald J. Bytner

Mar. 27, 1930 - Dec. 11, 2017

Ronald J. Bytner, 87, loving husband, selfless father and nurturing grandfather, passed away on Monday, December 11, 2017 at Signature Healthcare of South Bend. He was born on March 27, 1930 in South Bend, to John and Gloria (Bolke) Bytner, both whom preceded him in death.

On April 23, 1960 in the Bronx, NY, Ron married the former Marie Andreetti, who survives. Ron is also survived by his dear daughter, Jean M. Zappia of Granger, IN; his dear son, Daniel A. Bytner of South Bend; three beloved grandchildren, Mario Zappia, Jr., John Zappia, and Anna Zappia; his dear brother and wife, David and Ava Bytner; along with dear nieces and nephew, Brianna, Jim, and Ann Marie. In addition to his parents, Ron is preceded in death by his dear brother, Jack Bytner.

Ron served honorably in the U.S. Army in the early 1950s. He graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 1956. He spent much of his career as a writer and editor in New York City and Chicago. In 1973, the American Business Press (A.B.P.) honored Ron with its Jesse H. Neal Editorial Achievement Award, the A.B.P.’s highest award for a breaking news story.

In accordance with Ron’s wishes, no services will be held. Palmer Funeral Home—Hickey Chapel and Southlawn Cremation Services are assisting the family with arrangements.

Expressions of sympathy in memory of Ron may be donated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or organizations of the donor’s choice which support children at need: local child abuse prevention agencies, local right-to-life organizations, and local food banks for impoverished families.

Online condolences may be left for the Bytner family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

01/03/2021 DEC