Ralph W. SzymanskiOct. 27, 1925 - Nov. 13, 2016SOUTH BEND - Ralph W. Szymanski, 91, of South Bend, Indiana passed away on Sunday, November 13, 2016 at his home. Ralph was born on October 27, 1925 in South Bend, Indiana to Ladislaus and Blanche (Brzezniak) Szymanski, and was a lifelong resident. He had been employed as a Firefighter with the South Bend Fire Department from 1951-1976. Ralph was also a private gardener and maintenance man for O.C. Carmichael and Dr. Stanley Clark for many years. He worked at the South Bend Public Library from 1977-1992. On June 7, 1947 in St. Casimir's Church, he married Doris Casper, who preceded him in death on September 28, 2010. He was also preceded in death by his son David Szymanski; and his sister Lucille Zmudzinski. Ralph is survived by two daughters, Susan Gilmore of South Bend, Indiana and Kathleen (Edward) Golightly of Indianapolis, Indiana; one son, Douglas (Carole) Szymanski of Rancho Mirage, California; four grandchildren, Abby Gilmore, Emily (Scott) Holt, James Golightly, and Evan Golightly; and one great-grandson, Eric Holt. Ralph served in the United States Army from 1944-1946 in the Army Infantry III under General George Patton.Ralph and Doris were married for 63 precious years. He so lovingly and unselfishly cared for her during her illness of 13 years. For the past 6 years he proudly volunteered three mornings a week at Heathwin Specialized Care and with his knowledge of 3 languages, he could interact with many patients. Ralph's sense of humor was matched by few and he was always good for a joke or two, told through his sparkling blue eyes. He will be missed by his family and by all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Healthwin Specialized Care. Visitation will be Thursday, December 8th, 4-8 pm at the Kaniewski Funeral Home, 3545 N. Bendix Drive. A mass in his honor will be said Friday, December 9th, 11 am at St. John The Baptist Catholic Church. To send online condolences, please visit kaniewski.com