Jeffrey Gordon Vollmer

Jeffrey Gordon Vollmer, 66, of South Bend, IN, passed away on Wednesday, January 4, 2023. Jeff was born in Lafayette, IN, on April 23, 1956, to the late Gordon Vollmer and Frances Maxine (Deckman) Short.

A 1974 graduate of Knox High School, Jeff served in the United States Marine Corps from 1976-1980, traveling the world as a Field Artilleryman, and completing his military career at Camp Lejeune, N.C. After serving in the Marine Corps, Jeff spent over 35 years at Howmet Corp. in LaPorte, IN. In 1977, he married his high school sweetheart Evelyn at the height of his dedicated service to our country. Together they welcomed two wonderful children, Mike and Becky, into the world.

Jeff, however, was so much more than a series of dates or jobs — to know him was to love him. He was a true handyman who loved working on projects — taking on anything from vehicles to major home improvements (and everything in between). He was passionate about his food and his people, always enjoying an ice cream treat with the family, a backyard cookout, or sharing a beer with friends at Logan’s Roadhouse. Jeff loved to ride his Harley and had recently started gardening in his spare time. (There’s that passion for food again!) An avid sports fan, he especially loved the Chicago Bears — even on their worst days.

Jeff loved his grandchildren fiercely and spent much of his time trying to keep up with them — on bikes, roller skates, or electric scooters (all of which he quickly realized he might just be too old for). In true Poppy fashion, he was also always the first to volunteer for a makeover or to have his nails painted.
Jeff is survived by his best friend and ex-wife, Evelyn Vollmer; son, Mike (Mary) Vollmer and daughter, Becky (Ron) Johnson; his beloved grandchildren, Liberty Vollmer, Emmy, Lincoln, and Porter Johnson; and his sister Vicki Simoni, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends and neighbors who have become family. Preceding him in death are his parents, Gordon Vollmer and Frances Maxine (Deckman) Short, and brothers, David and Darrell Vollmer.

His celebration of life will be held Thursday February 2, 2023, from 3-6pm at VFW Post 360, located at 1307 Jefferson Blvd. Mishawaka.

To light a virtual candle, share a story of Jeff’s life, or leave a message of comfort for his family, please follow the links provided on the tribute wall tab above.