John E Sidorowicz

John E. Sidorowicz, 80, passed away peacefully at his home with his family by his side on February 6, 2024.

Born in South Bend, Indiana on December 21, 1943, to the late Edward and Josephine (Salomon) Sidorowicz, John grew up on the west side of South Bend and graduated from Washington High School.

John met his wife, Lenore (Cummins), and they hit if off from the start. He instantly knew he’d found his soul mate, and would even say his life only truly started when he found her. The two were married on March 16, 1966. The couple shared in many adventures throughout their nearly 58 years together—especially in their travels throughout the country.

John and Lenore were blessed with two children, Rachel (John) Fischer and John (Jennifer) Sidorowicz. He cherished and was especially proud of his four grandchildren, Kara (Sean Ray), Haley, Emma, and William Sidorowicz. John also regarded many pets over the years as family, and particularly loved his golden retrievers: the late McGregor, and Kahuna.

In his career, John proudly served with the US Navy supporting the submarine and surface fleet with deployments in Europe and Southeast Asia. He later served several years with the Seabees and attended jump school at Fort Benning at the age of 40. John was honorably discharged, achieving the rank of 1st Class Petty Officer.

Along with his military career, John artfully infused his skillset into work spanning R&D, management, and hands-on service in HVAC, plumbing, and commercial refrigeration. He was a jack of all trades who enjoyed working with his hands, and never met a problem he couldn’t solve. John was respected for his can-do approach, known for being able to fix anything, and took satisfaction in teaching and helping others out of a tough spot. John was also a Master Mason and member of Council Oak Lodge 745.

Although John worked hard, he emphasized the value of prioritizing family, friends, and the hobbies that bring you joy in life. He had a passion for the outdoors and enjoyed his time on the water. As quite the story teller, he reflected about his first giant bluegills from his aunt’s cottage as a young boy, cod from the Clyde, walleyes of the English River and sharks in the Keys. He loved fishing, and taught all of his children (& their kids & friends) how to fish, and the importance of doing it with compassion, consideration, and appreciation for nature.

Trips to Bear Lake, Michigan as an early teen cemented his annual visits spanning more than 70 years which he shared with his family, it is his happy place (followed by the Florida Keys, of course). Driven by a hearty appetite, he crafted countless gourmet meals that brought smiles and full bellies from deer camp to the back yard pool party with his family and friends.

John emanated kindness, love, and generosity. He approached life with curiosity, an infectious sense of humor, and a heavy garnish of orneriness. He was a mentor and teacher who believed that knowledge is wasted if it isn’t shared, and he shared his wisdom so that we could learn and grow from it. He encouraged us to pursue our goals and taught us the tenacity we need to see them through. He was a loving and supportive husband, father, grandfather (to his own kids & their many friends he took on as their unofficial Grandad), and friend.

The best thing we can do to honor him is to continue teaching others the valuable lessons he’s shared with us: work hard, remember not to take life too seriously, and to always take care of and make sure your friends and family know how special they are to you. We love and miss you, and will carry you with us always, John.

A Celebration of Life will be planned for John at a later date. Please consider a memorial donation in John’s name to Five Star Life at Donate to Five Star Life.