Edward Bonczek

Edward “Eddie” Bonczek, a proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force, passed away peacefully at home on July 30, 2024. Eddie was born on November 18, 1931 in New Chicago, IN as the youngest son of Leopold and Roszalja Bonczek, who had immigrated from Poland before Eddie’s birth. Upon graduating from Hobart High School in 1950, he worked for several years at Elgin, Joliet and Eastern (EJE) Railway. He enlisted in military service at 20 years old and served his country between 1952-1956, including deployment in the Korean War. In 1956, Eddie returned to EJE Railway, and he married his sweetheart, LaDella Miller, on June 17, 1961. Soon after, he reenlisted in the Air Force, where he stayed until retirement, completing over 20 years of active duty, including service in the Vietnam War and stations in Labrador, Canada, as well as at Edwards Air Force Base in California. Back as a civilian, Eddie accepted a job at US Steel in Indiana, where he and LaDella lovingly raised their two children, Helen and Joseph. The entire Bonczek family were members of All Saints Catholic Church in San Pierre, IN. In addition to being a devoted husband, father, and parish member, a love of nature was central to Eddie’s life. He would often take his children on fishing and camping adventures in the wilderness, and he would frequently volunteer at the Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area in Medaryville, IN. You could also occasionally find him traveling to Europe to spend time with his beloved Polish relatives, as well as visiting aviation museums to admire the aircrafts he used to fly in and repair during his military days. Eddie was a music enthusiast and adored playing his piano at home (entirely self-taught). He will be deeply missed, but he is now at peace with God as he joins his loved ones who have passed before him. The family would like to thank the caregiving services of VNA Hospice NWI for allowing our dear Eddie to have a comfortable and dignified ending to his amazing life. Edward was preceded in death by his parents, Leopold and Roszalja Bonczek, and his three siblings, Walter Bonczek, Stanley Bonczek, and Helen Lewman. He is survived by his adoring wife, LaDella Bonczek; his two children, Helen (Paul) Nunnelly and Joseph (Sherri) Bonczek; his five grandchildren, Nathanial (Amanda) Nunnelly, Keara (Zach) Ruble, Danielle (Diego) Orozco, Weston (Matthew) Bonczek, and Braden Bonczek; his eight great-grandchildren, Abraham, Axel, Rowan, Lincoln, Olivia, Owen, Amelie, and Reid; along with many other loving family members and dear friends. Amongst an endless list of recollections, Eddie’s loved ones will fondly remember his strong and gentle spirit, the upbeat piano and organ music he produced daily, his joy-filled face as he played with his great-grandchildren, his wonderful knack for storytelling, and his affection for the natural world and the many woodland creatures on his property. A funeral mass to honor Edward’s life will be held on Saturday, August 3, 2024, officiated by the Rev. Terry Bennett at All Saints Catholic Church, 201 W Eliza St, in San Pierre, IN. A visitation will first take place from 9:00-11:00 AM, with the service from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM. A military burial will follow at approximately 12:00 PM, with a subsequent reception at All Saint’s church. For further information, please contact O'Donnell Funeral Home in North Judson, IN at phone number 574-896-2149. Flowers and condolences may be sent to the family through Main Street Floral and Gifts (574-896-5797; northjudsonflowers.com).

Edward Bonczek

November 18, 1931 - July 30, 2024