Steve Obren

Steve Obren, 83, of Mishawaka, passed away Saturday morning, April 12, 2014, in St. Joseph Regional Medical Center.

Steve was born November 16, 1930 to George and Elsie (Kovachevich) Obren. He grew up in South Bend and Mishawaka. He served his country in the US Army during the Korean War and received a Purple Heart and was most proud of receiving the Combat Infantry Badge.

On January 29, 1955, Steve married Verleen Hedman. The couple made Mishawaka their home.

For 25 years, Steve owned and operated Steve’s Barber Shop in Mishawaka. He later retired from AM General after 18 years of employment.

Steve was an active member of Saints Peter & Paul Serbian Orthodox Church in South Bend. He was a member of VFW Post #360 and also the Disabled American Veterans. Steve particularly enjoyed an annual fishing trip to Canada. He liked hunting. Steve enjoyed his twice daily visits with friends at the American Pancake House. He always loved spending time with his family and friends.

Steve’s surviving family includes his wife of 59 years, Verleen; seven children, George (Denise) Obren, Mark (Debbie) Obren, Tim (Melanie) Obren, Tom (Barb) Obren, Teri (Mike) Harris, Steven Obren and Shari Chadwell; three brothers, Andy (Arlene) Obren, Fred Obren and Pete Obren; three sisters, Rose Harlow, Violet Millage and Mitzi Goethals; and eleven grandchildren, John, Sally, Libby, Kevin, Sarah, Nick, Natalie, Colton, Caitlin, Loren and Emily; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Steve was preceded in death by a brother, George Obren; and three sisters, Joan Kovachevich, Donna Bickel and Anna Obren.

Services will be held Wednesday at 11 am in Saints Peter & Paul Serbian Orthodox Church, 59250 Keria Trail, South Bend, with Rev. Fr. Sasa Nedic officiating. Burial will follow in Southlawn Cemetery. Military honors will be provided by VFW 360 / American Legion 161 Burial Squad.

Friends may spend time with Steve’s family Tuesday from 12 noon – 2 pm and also 4 pm – 7:30 pm in Goethals & Wells Funeral Home, 503 W. 3rd Street, Mishawaka. A prayer service will be held at 7:30 pm. Visitation is also Wednesday from 10 – 11 am in the church.

Memorials are suggested to Saints Peter & Paul Serbian Orthodox Church.