Central 1955 Ronald E Schmanske

Aug. 07, 1936 - Nove. 23, 2016

ELKHART - Ronald E. Schmanske, 80, of Elkhart, peacefully passed away November 23, 2016, at his home.

He was born Aug. 7, 1936, in South Bend, IN to John F. and Johanna (Kravontka)Schmanski.

On May 3, 1958, he married Carolyn (Dempsey) Schmanske in South Bend, IN.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Schmanske, of Elkhart, a daughter, Dana (John) Soptich of Elkhart and a son, R. Anthony (Leslie) Schmanske of Friendswood, TX, five grandchildren, Christopher, Alex and Mary Soptich, and Hannah and Jacob Schmanske. He was also a loving uncle to many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Dorothy (Robert) McNerney and a brother John F. (Frances) Schmanski, Jr.

Ronald graduated from South Bend Central High School in 1955. He spent his entire career in the newspaper business starting as a paper boy for The South Bend Tribune. After serving in the United States Army he went back to The South Bend Tribune and worked in various positions. In 1970 he went to work for The Elkhart Truth and retired from there as Director of Marketing & Public Relations in 2004. He was creator and director of The Great Race for 35 years and was past president of several organizations including the Noon Kiwanis Club and was a member of St. Thomas Catholic Church.

Of his many achievements, he was most noted for contributing his time and talent to the Elkhart community. Ronald enjoyed running and was proud to have completed many races including the Boston Marathon.

Per his wishes, his body was donated to Indiana University School of Medicine.

A memorial Mass will take place at St. Thomas Catholic Church, Elkhart, IN, at 3:00 PM AM, Saturday, December 17, 2016.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Center for Hospice Care,

22579 Old U.S. 20 East, Elkhart, IN 46516

Religious Service Information

St Thomas the Apostle Church

N Main St

Elkhart, IN 46514

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Published in South Bend Tribune on Nov. 27, 2016

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