In Memory
Ernest R. Zalejski
Nov. 23, 1925 - Aug. 5, 2012
SOUTH BEND - Ernest R. Zalejski, 86, passed away Sunday, August 5, 2012, in the Sanctuary of St. Paul Rehabilitation. Ernie was born November 23, 1925, in South Bend, to the late John and Victoria (Loranta) Zalejski. Ernie was also preceded in death by siblings, Edward Zalejski, Sigmund Zalejski, Stephany Burzynski, Lila Zalejski and Gene Szarwark.
Ernie is survived by his special friend, Theresa Kalicki, and many nieces and nephews. Ernie honorably served his country in the United States Army during World War II, and was a member of American Legion Post 357 for 50 years. He was a parishioner of St. Adalbert Catholic Church. Ernie retired from the U.S. Treasury in 1996 after 30 years of service as an Area Manager. Ernie was the President of the St. Joseph Young Men's Club for six years; he was a member of the NFL Alumni Association South Bend Chapter, member of the Notre Dame Monogram Club, member of the Indiana Football Hall of Fame, and member of the South Bend Hall of Fame.
Ernie was a three-time all-state half back from 1942-1944 with Washington High School, and was the most valuable player in the Northern Indiana Conference in 1944. Ernie made 17 touchdowns of 50 yards or greater in his high school career, and was a member of State Championship teams in 1943-1944. Ernie was the highest scoring half back in South Bend history when his playing career was done. Ernie played football at Notre Dame under Coach Frank Leahy from 1946-1949; his team was undefeated in 39 games and national champions in 1946, 1947 and 1949. Ernie was selected to play in the Blue Gray All Star Game in 1949. Ernest was also drafted by the Chicago Bears and then played for the Baltimore Colts in 1951. Ernie also was the head football coach at Joliet Catholic High School from 1954-1959.
Visitation will be from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm, today, August 8, 2012, in ST. JOSEPH FUNERAL HOME, 824 S. Mayflower Road, where a Rosary will be prayed at 4:00 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1:00 pm Thursday, August 9, 2012, in St. Adalbert Catholic Church. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Adalbert Catholic Church, 2505 W. Grace St., South Bend, IN 46619. Condolences for the family may be made at sjfh.net.
Published by South Bend Tribune on Aug. 8, 2012.
06/14/2023 EJS
|