In Memory
David Ernest Orlowski
August 19, 1950 ~ September 8, 2026 (age 76)
David Ernest Orlowski, age 76, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on September 8, 2026. David was given life by his Creator and was born on August 19, 1950, to the late Ernest and Jeanette Orlowski (Huber) in South Bend, Indiana.
On March 13, 1976 David married Beverly Reifstick, his former wife, with whom he fathered two children. On November 11, 1989, David married Evelyn Kanczuzewski, who preceded him in death. David was fortunate to find love again with Roxanne Rockwell (Kessler) and united in holy matrimony on June 13, 2020.
David began his career as a baker at Kreamo Bakery in South Bend and as a foreman at Lloyd J Harris Pie Company in Chicago. His passion was for automobiles, so he later transitioned to bus mechanic at Transpo in South Bend for 32 years until retiring.
David loved fishing, playing cards, bible study, and everything related to Notre Dame. He cherished his grandchildren and made lasting memories riding his John Deere Gator to the lake. His love for automobiles was evident in his vintage car collection: ’64 Studebaker Avanti, and 66’ Chevy Impala.
David was a strong believer in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was a member of the St. Peter Lutheran Church where he served as an usher. David also served as President of St. Joseph’s Young Men’s Society, and on the Board of Directors at Transpo Credit Union and as Financial Secretary for Resurrection Lutheran Academy.
David is survived by his loving wife, Roxanne; children: Carrie Orlowski and Michael Orlowski; step-sons: Marc (Jessica) Rockwell, Jeffrey (Megan) Rockwell, Matthew (Chasity) Rockwell; siblings: Robert (Ann) Orlowski, Diana Orlowski, Martin (Janice) Orlowski, Dennis (Karen) Orlowski, Paul ( Kathy) Orlowski, Susan Zwierzynski and Steven Orlowski; grandchildren: Emma, Garrick, and Zyben Orlowski, Evan, Cooper, Ayden, Michael, Alexandra, and Ethan Rockwell; and many nieces and nephews.
David was a loving husband, devoted father & grandfather, caring brother, and a true friend to many. David lived 76 beautiful years and has now moved on to walk with Jesus and the loved ones who went before him.
Friends may call from 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm, Sunday, September 13, 2026 at St. Joseph Funeral Home 824 S. Mayflower Road, South Bend. Services will be held at St. Peter Lutheran Church on Monday, September 14, 2026 at 10:30 am EST at 437 E. Dragoon Trail, Mishawaka, with visitation 1 hour prior to the service. Burial to follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, South Bend.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Peter Lutheran Church.
09/11/2026 EJS
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