Andrew N. “Jelly Bean” Molnar

Nov. 14, 1927 – July 16, 2004

Andrew N. “Jelly Bean” Molnar, 76, of Alterra Sterling House, formerly of South Carlisle Street, South Bend, Ind., passed away at 7:07 p.m.Friday, July 16, in Hospice House. Andrew was born on Nov.14, 1927, in South Bend, to Irene Taller and Nicholas Molnar, who preceded him in death. On Jan.28, 1950, in South Bend, he married Isabelle R. Fowler, who preceded him in death on Sept.4, 2001.

Andrew is survived by two children, David (Wendy) Molnar of South Bend, a grandson, Eric (Melissa) Molnar, and three great-grandsons, Tristan Molnar, Travis Molnar and Zach Tapp; and by a daughter, Diane (Greg) Barth of South Bend, grandson, Neil Barth of South Bend, granddaughter, Melissa (Steven) Rowe, and a great-grandson, Hunter Rowe of Osceola, Ind.

Andrew was always there for his children, and cherished his grandchildren and great-grand- sons. He has left us with many happy and fun memories.

Christmas was always very special to him. He always made it magical from hanging his Christmas tree from the ceiling so he could swing and spin the tree just to see the sparkle and magic in his grandchildren’s eyes. Memories we will all cherish. Andrew also had a special place in his heart for Donnie Kurzhal, whom he thought of as a second son, and a great part of our family. They loved each other dearly.

Andrew is also survived by a sister, Helen (Rocco) Papandria of South Bend, and by many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a brother, Joseph Nyikos.

Andrew was a graduate of Washington High School, and served in World War II in the United States Navy. He was a member of the Calvert Rod & Gun Club and also the Studebaker Drivers Club. He worked for Studebaker in his early years, Sollitt Construction for 27 years, and retired from Bates & Rogers Construction in 1985. Andy was always known by his nickname “Jelly Bean” to his buddies and friends. His hobbies were his Studebaker car, selling Studebaker parts, fishing, hunting, and gardening, growing tasty tomatoes and beautiful flowers. He loved telling jokes and making everyone laugh. Andy will be truly missed by his children, grandchildren, family and friends. His children, David and Diane, wish to express many thanks to everyone who took care of their Dad from Hospice and the Sterling House staff who always made him feel comfortable. Also thank you to his family and friends who kept him in their thoughts and prayers, visits, cards and phone calls. And an extra special thank you to Donnie for his weekly Sunday visits and special home-made meals and treats which Dad really enjoyed. Donnie will always have a special place in our Dad’s heart and ours also.

Family and friends may call from 3 to 9 p.m. Monday in the Zahoran Funeral Home, 1826 S. Kemble Ave.The Calvert Rod & Gun Club will have a prayer service at 7 p.m. A parish Rosary will be recited at 7:30 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 20, in St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, South Bend, where he was a member. Burial will follow at Highland Cemetery. The family requests that gifts for Andy be made to Hospice of St.Joseph County, 111 Sunnybrook Court, South Bend, IN 46637.

Dearest Dad:

God saw you were getting tired

And cure was not to be

So He put His arms around you

And whispered, “Come with Me”

With tearful eye we watched you suffer

And saw you fade away.

Though we loved you dearly

We could not make you stay.

A golden heart stopped beating.

Hard-working hands at rest.

God broke our hearts to prove to us

He only takes the best.

Source: Newspapers.com

09/09/2024 EJS