In Memory
Vivian J. (Kunz) Gerschoffer Kruger
January 21, 1930 ~ October 4, 2026 (age 96)
Vivian Josephine Gerschoffer Kruger joined her beloved sons, Mark, Neil, and David; her husbands, Joe and Les; and the many family members and friends who went before her in heaven on October 4, 2026. We can only imagine the reunion waiting for her and knowing Viv, she’s already got the party organized!
Vivian was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Rose Kunz; her husbands, Joe Gerschoffer and Les Kruger; her sister, Ruth; her daughter-in-law, Kay; her three sons, Mark, Neil, and David; her best friends, Bobbi Bartell and Joann Hill, her granddaughter, Ashley Gerschoffer; and the best, most spoiled wiener dog ever to grace this earth, Betsy.
She leaves behind two sons, Kerry and Paul Gerschoffer (Cheryl); grandchildren Dan Carter (Amy), Melanie Fischer (Gary), and Dr. Westley Carter (Aimee); great-grandchildren Jacob Carter, Brooke Higgins (Rusty), Joe Carter (Robin), Bailey Zalas (Zach), Lexia Carter, Jimmy Fischer, Anthony Davis, Devon Bell, Charles Carter, Meghan Carter, Chloe Carter, and Wyatt Carter; and great-great-grandchildren Willow and Azalea Zalas. Her family was her pride and joy, and her legacy lives on in the many generations who will carry her spirit, her stories, and undoubtedly a few of her more colorful expressions with them.
Affectionately known as “Mama Gersch,” Vivian was a second mom to countless friends of the Gerschoffer boys. She welcomed them with open arms, a full plate, and, when necessary, a well-timed kick in the butt. She had a gift for making people feel like family and for making sure they knew when they were cruisin’ for a bruisin’.
Vivian was the matriarch, not only of her family but also of Jovi’s, the longtime South Side establishment that held a special place in so many memories. She was the “Vi” in Jovi’s and was famous for making incredible soups, especially her Hungarian goulash. If you were lucky enough to have a bowl, you knew it was made with love, a little elbow grease, and probably an ingredient or two she wouldn’t have bothered measuring.
Viv was equal parts grit, spunk, and spice, mixed with plenty of elbow grease, a sharp wit, and just a splash of sugar. She was the life of the party, always ready for an adventure and never one to sit still when there was music playing. If a familiar song came on, you could expect her to dance. If something was funny, you could expect her to laugh. And if there was a party, you could pretty much bet she’d be there.
Viv never forgot a birthday and rarely missed an event to which she was invited. Her calendar may have been full, but somehow she always found room for one more adventure. She had a way of turning ordinary occasions into memorable stories, and chances are, a few of those stories are still being embellished upon today.
And then there was Notre Dame.
Whenever Mama Gersch heard the Fighting Irish fight song, she was ready to go! Her love for Notre Dame football never faded, and even to the very end, she continued to root for “her boys.” We can only hope heaven has HD TV, a comfortable seat, and Notre Dame games readily available. If there’s football on, Viv will be watching and if you listen closely on a Saturday afternoon Viv’s voice might be heard in the echoes carrying through the crowd, singing : “Cheer, cheer for old Notre Dame!” We have no doubt she’s already found the best seat in the house, rallied the heavenly crowd, and made sure everyone knows when it’s time to cheer for the Irish.
Once a Fighting Irish fan, always a Fighting Irish fan even in heaven! ☘
Vivian lived life on her own terms, loved fiercely, laughed often, and made sure the people around her knew they mattered. She was tough when she needed to be, tender when it counted, and never short on opinions. She leaves behind a family full of love and memories, and more than a few people who will forever hear her voice in their heads reminding them how things ought to be done.
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to her loving caretakers, Brenda, Debbie, and Carolyn. Your kindness, compassion, and dedication made it possible for Viv to remain at home, surrounded by the familiar comforts and love she deserved. We are forever grateful for the care you gave her and the love you showed our family.
COME CELEBRATE THE LIFE OF MAMA GERSCH!
In true Viv fashion, we can’t imagine sending her off without a gathering, some good food, plenty of laughter, and a little merriment! Mama Gersch wouldn’t want everyone sitting around being sad when there’s food to eat and fun to be had!
Family and friends who knew and loved Vivian are warmly invited to join us as we celebrate her remarkable life, share our favorite memories, tell a few stories , and raise a glass to a woman who left her mark on so many hearts.
CELEBRATION OF LIFE: Saturday, November 28, 2026, 2:00–5:00 p.m. Bowler’s Country Club, 55839 Pine Road, South Bend, Indiana 46619. Food will be served, stories will be shared, and merriment is strongly encouraged. Come hungry, and wear your Notre Dame shirts.
Rest easy, Mama Gersch. Give our love to everyone up there, save a dance for us, keep an eye on those boys and enjoy watching “Overboard” with Ashely. And when the Fighting Irish fight song plays in heaven, we have no doubt you’ll be the first one on your feet. We know you wouldn’t have it any other way.
Zahoran Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.
10/14/2026 EJS
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