Edward Pernic

Edward Pernic, age 81, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2025, in South Bend, Indiana. Born on November 11, 1944, in Greenwood, Wisconsin, he was the son of the late John Pernic and Julia (Pekol) Pernic.

Edward met the love of his life, Mary (Burich) Pernic, and the two were married on March 14, 1970, in Granite City, Illinois. They shared 45 wonderful years together before Mary’s passing in 2016. Their marriage was filled with devotion, partnership, and a deep love for family.

Edward is survived by his four children: Rachel Pernic (Bill Rakoczy) of Chicago, IL; Allison Pernic (Scott Connors) of South Bend, IN; Trevor Pernic of Indianapolis, IN; and Matthew Pernic (Meredith Prest) of Chicago, IL. He was a proud grandfather to six beloved grandchildren: Beatrix, Henry, Lincoln, Atlas, Teagan, and Isla.

He is also survived by his brothers, John (Judy) Pernic of Cannon Falls, MN, and Robert (Patricia) Pernic of Williams Bay, WI; as well as his sister-in-law, Dorothy Pernic of Round Lake, WI. Edward was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Mary; his brother, Stanley Pernic; and his sister, Loretta Sprague.

Edward lived a life rich with curiosity, craftsmanship, and adventure. A proud U.S. Army veteran, he carried his sense of discipline and determination into everything he pursued. He was a private pilot and even built his own airplane—an achievement that reflected both his skill and his fearless spirit. On the ground, he was equally at home behind the handlebars of his motorcycle, traveling the country and earning the nickname “Fast Eddie” along the way. He loved restoring classic cars, especially Corvettes, and never shied away from learning something new. Edward was also well known for his fondness of polka dancing, bringing joy and motion into every gathering.

Above all, Edward cherished his family. He will be remembered for his generosity, his humor, his adventurous heart, and the deep love he carried for those closest to him. His legacy lives on in the stories he created, the passions he shared, and the family who adored him.

According to the family’s wishes, Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:00pm on Thursday, December 4, 2025 at St. Thérèse, Little Flower Catholic Church, 54191 N. Ironwood Road, South Bend, IN. Friends may visit with the family from 11:00am-12:00pm on Thursday at the church, prior to the service. Palmer Funeral Home—Welsheimer North Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org). Online condolences may be left for the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

Edward will be deeply missed and forever loved.

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