Jeanne J. Pietrzak

Jeanne J. Pietrzak, 82, of Mishawaka, passed away Tuesday morning, January 19, 2016, in her home surrounded by her family.

Jeanne was born July 18, 1933 in Niles, a daughter of the late Fay and Millicent (Smith) Johnson. She grew up in Niles and was a graduate of Niles High School. She has lived in Mishawaka since the late 1950’s.

Jeanne was employed with School City of Mishawaka in various positions and for many years was the secretary at Bingham Elementary School. She was member of First Brethren Church in South Bend and prepared their bulletin for many years. Jeanne belonged to a Ladies Bridge Club in Mishawaka for many years. In her younger years she was a member of First United Methodist Church in Mishawaka and over the years remained friends with many ladies from the church. Jeanne loved flower and vegetable gardening. She is particularly remembered as being a very generous person who was always willing to help those in need.

Jeanne married Lewis Robert Koontz on May 25, 1952 in Niles and he passed away in 1989. She later married Ronald Pietrzak on August 7, 1993 and he passed away in 2013. Jeanne was also preceded in death by a son Larry Koontz in 1974; a son, Curtis Pietrzak in 2009; and a sister, Rita Johnson.

Jeanne’s surviving family includes six children, Robert Koontz, Richard Koontz, Karen Koontz Keltz, Gregory Pietrzak, Tina Wade and Steven Pietrzak; three sisters, Joyce Lindt, Lois Ramsay and Linda Hicks; two brothers, Donald Johnson and Ronald Johnson; twelve grandchildren; and many great grandchildren.

The family would like to thank the Center for Hospice Care for the wonderful care shown to Jeanne and her family.

Services honoring Jeanne’s life and faith will be held Friday, January 22, at 1 pm in Goethals & Wells Funeral Home, 503 W. 3rd Street, Mishawaka, with Pastor Fred Youngen leading the service. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Valley Memorial Park, Granger.

Friends may spend time with Jeanne’s family Thursday, January 21, from 4 - 7 pm and Friday from 12 noon - 1 pm in the funeral home.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Alzheimer’s Association or Milton Adult Day Services or Center for Hospice Care. Assistance with memorials is available at the funeral home.