James John Manuszak

James John Manuszak, age 82, passed away at Elkhart General Hospital on Saturday, August 14, 2021.  Jim was born June 27, 1939, in South Bend, Indiana to the late William and Helen (Pullman) Manuszak.  Jim was a graduate of Riley High School, class of 1957, and he later attended Wharton School of Business to advance his computer programming skills.  His career in computer programming spanned over four decades in the Michiana area, and he worked for many of the larger corporations retiring from the CTS Corporation of Elkhart several years ago. Never one to just “sit still,” Jim kept himself busy with a variety of part time jobs.  On December 20, 1996, he married the former Ms. Joyce Maculski in Las Vegas, Nevada.   They were eagerly anticipating the opportunity to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary later in the year.

Joyce survives, along with his children Michael Manuszak of Mishawaka, Maureen Manuszak of Indianapolis, Indiana and Mark (Kathi) Manuszak of Mishawaka.  Surviving as well are his stepdaughters Tanya (Michael) Ellis of South Bend, and Tara Foster of Rolling Prairie.  Jim is survived as well by his siblings Elaine Montgomery, Kathleen (Allan) Miller, and Louise (Mark) DeWitte, 13 grandchildren: Mitchell (Jennifer) Manuszak, David Manuszak, Wyatt Manuszak, Melanie Manuszak, Zachary Manuszak, Matthew Ellis, Andrew Ellis, Christopher Ellis, Ashley (Garrett) Hatfield, Canyon Ellis, Bryanna Ellis, Chelbi Dyer, Angaleyse Foster and Channing Foster and 8 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his brother William “Bill” Manuszak and his brother-in-law Carl Montgomery.

Visitation will be held from 4-7 pm Friday, August 20, 2021, at Cruz Family Funeral Home in Osceola. At 7 pm. Jim’s brothers from St. Joseph Masonic Lodge #45 will perform the Masonic Ceremony for Jim who was a longtime member of the Masonic Lodge.  There will also be one hour of visitation prior to the 11:00 am Celebration of Life service on Saturday, August 21, 2021, at the Osceola Grace Church, 58343 South Apple Road, Osceola, Indiana 46561.  Following Jim’s wishes, his ashes will be scattered at his favorite spot on the river.

Jim kept busy throughout his life helping others.  He never knew a stranger and for many years Jim brought joy and wonder to the hearts of children and adults alike as he played Santa Claus for numerous children’s events and private parties throughout the area.

He was an avid fan of sports who bowled played in softball leagues, and coached basketball in his younger years.  He also enjoyed spending time outdoors fishing for salmon and playing golf as well as camping with his family and friends.  Even in his spare time, Jim worked as an Uber driver in the community.

Most of all, Jim was a man of great faith.  He was raised catholic and attended St. Matthew’s church before he became a longtime member at Osceola Grace Church. His faith in the Lord, his love for his family and the joy he brought others through his friendly and fun-loving demeanor will be what keeps his memory alive in the hearts of those he knew and loved.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like memorial donations given to the American Heart Association in his honor.  Please follow the link below to make a donation.  To share a story of Jim’s life, light a virtual candle in his memory, or leave a message of condolence for Jim’s family, please follow the links provided on our tribute wall tab above.