John A. Pendl

John Andrew Pendl, Jr., passed away peacefully in South Bend, IN, on September 5, 2023, at the age of 94. Born on November 21, 1928, in South Bend, IN, to the late John A. Pendl and Nellie (Smith) Pendl, John spent his entire life in the city he loved, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, faith, and humor.

John graduated from Central High School and went on to serve his country honorably in the United States Army during the Korean War. Following his service, he returned to his beloved hometown where he worked for Uniroyal until retirement. John married his sweetheart, Betty June (Boger) Pendl on November 30, 1957, in the United East Methodist Church in Mishawaka. Together, they raised their family, instilling in them the same values of love, faith, and community that guided John's life. 

John was preceded in death by his wife, Betty, who passed away January 1, 2015, as well as his father, John A. Pendl, his mother, Nellie (Smith) Pendl, and three of his siblings, Virginia Sult, Gladys Pendl, and Jack Pendl. He is survived by his daughter, Nora (Reed) Anderstrom, and his sons, Paul (Karen) Pendl and Ray “Cully” (Michelle) Pendl. John was a beloved grandfather to 11 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren, whose lives have been enriched by his wisdom, humor, and love. He also leaves behind his sisters, Norma Dorman, Coral Hibiske, and Ruth Hock, as well as many nieces, nephews, and beloved friends.

John was a long-time member of the Calvary Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, guiding his actions and decisions. He was known for his legendary stories, which will forever live on in the hearts and minds of those who had the privilege of hearing them. His kind spirit, humorous stories, and faith-filled life touched everyone he met.

In the words of Maya Angelou, "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." John lived his life embodying this sentiment, always putting others before himself and making every person he met feel special and loved. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide all who knew him.

Funeral services for John will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, September 9, 2023, in the Calvary Baptist Church, 3001 Cleveland Road #8404, South Bend. Graveside services with military honors will follow in Southlawn Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family from 4:00 – 7:00 pm Friday, September 8, 2023, in the Palmer Funeral Home – Hickey Chapel, 17131 Cleveland Road, South Bend, as well as one hour prior to services on Saturday in the church.

Expressions of sympathy in memory of John may be donated to Silent Word Ministries, 6250 GA-136, Trenton, GA 30752 (Paul Strosnider).

Online condolences may be left for the Pendl family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

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