In Memory
Joseph Timothy Kuzmitz
April 03, 1953 ~ October 28, 2025
Beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Joseph Timothy “Joe” Kuzmitz passed away peacefully on October 28, surrounded by his loving family and friends.
Joe was born on April 03, 1953, in South Bend, Indiana, to Andrew Anthony and Jane Kuzmitz. He grew up in a close-knit family and community that instilled in him a deep sense of loyalty, compassion, and humor, qualities that defined his life.
Joe was married to the love of his life, Nancy (Balka) Kuzmitz, for 41 wonderful years. Together, they raised two daughters, Jamie (Nick) Shanahan and Kelly Kuzmitz, who were his greatest pride and joy. Joe found immense happiness in his role as “Papa” to his grandchildren Evie, Duke, and Teddy, cherishing every moment he spent with them. His warmth, sense of humor, and unconditional love created a bond they will carry forever.
Joe was also a loving brother to Mary Jane Stanley and Andy Kuzmitz. From his family, he learned the values of kindness, hard work, and community, principles he carried with him throughout his life and shared generously with everyone he met.
A proud alumnus of Marian University, Joe went on to earn his MBA from the University of Notre Dame. His integrity, intelligence, and leadership guided his 40-year career as a Senior Vice President at 1st Source Bank, where he was deeply respected for both his professional excellence and his compassionate mentorship.
Joe was committed to giving back to his community through service and volunteerism. He served on the Board of Trustees for Marian University, was an active member of the Student Affairs Committee since 2013, became Chair of the Committee in 2019, and was honored as a Trustee Emeritus in 2023. He also dedicated his time to the Boys and Girls Club Board and volunteered at Milton Adult Day Services, where his kindness and steady presence left a lasting impact on everyone he met.
Beyond his family, career, and community work, Joe found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He enjoyed playing golf, listening to his favorite playlists, taking long bike rides in New Buffalo, and, as those who knew him best can recall, sneaking into sporting events whenever he could. He will be remembered for his warm smile, generous spirit, and unwavering love for his family and friends.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Joe’s life during a visitation on Monday, November 3rd, from 4:00 PM–7:00 PM at Palmer Funeral Home–Hickey Chapel, 17131 Cleveland Rd., South Bend, IN 46635. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, November 4th at 10:00 AM at Christ the King Catholic Church, 52473 State Hwy 933, South Bend, IN 46637, followed by burial at Highland Cemetery in South Bend.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Milton Adult Day Services, 111 Sunnybrook Ct., South Bend, IN 46637, and Center for Hospice Care, 501 Comfort Pl., Mishawaka, IN 46545.
Posted online on October 29, 2025
Published in South Bend Tribune
Added 10/31/2025 GMS
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