William J.Granning

Feb. 21, 1926 - Jul. 8, 2012

William J. Granning, 86 of South Bend passed away July 8, 2012 following a brief illness. Bill was born on February 21, 1926 in South Bend to Charles James and Helen Granning. On October 25, 1947, he married Mary Lou LaFortune who survives along with daughters, Carol Fry (Craig), Karen Schlobohm (Dan), and son Ron Granning; grandchildren Courtney Koszyk (Aaron), Lucas Fry (Rachel), and Haley Harrell (Bryan); great-grandchildren Kalyn, Kyle, Logan, Jordan, Grace, Grady William, and Reese.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Connie Smith and brother Richard Granning.

Bill attended St. Monica's and graduated in 1944 from John Adam's high school. After graduation he served in the 12th Armored Division. While in the Army, he performed duties of Rifleman while serving in the 56th Armored Infantry Battalion in France and Germany. He operated M-1 Rifles, Bazooka and various other infantry weaponry against enemy troops. He was honorably awarded the Bronze Star Medal for meritorious achievement in ground combat against the armed enemy during World War 2 in the European- African Middle Eastern Theater of Operations. He earned three battle stars in the Rhineland, Europe and Ardennes- Alsace campaigns.
 

Bill and his wife Mary Lou made their home in South Bend where he was a barber for 32 years at Chmiel's Barber Shop. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who found his greatest joy in being with his family. He was active in his children's lives following all of them. Bill coached Babe Ruth's little league and loved fishing with his son Ron. He coached and trained his daughter Carol throughout her swimming career with the South Bend Marlins. He followed his daughter Karen through her volleyball and coaching career. He and daughter Karen were co-founders of Starburst Volleyball Club where he was known as "Grandpa".
 

Bill loved following and traveling to home and away Notre Dame football games. He was also a devoted fan of the Chicago Cubs which he enjoyed watching with his wife Mary Lou. He loved weekends at the lake and spending time at "the farm" with the horses. He cherished his retirement years by keeping his yard beautiful, sitting outside with his wife Mary Lou, and spoiling his dog Fuji.

He will be dearly missed. Our memories of him will be cherished and never forgotten. Per his request, there will be a private service at Palmer Funeral Home- Hickey Chapel. Online condolences may be sent to the Granning family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

04/10/2021 DEC