John R. Palkovich, Jr.

John R. Palkovich, Jr., 81, passed away on Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at Memorial Hospital in South Bend. He was born to John R. Palkovich, Sr. and Martina (Lyvers) Palkovich on November 1,1942 in East Chicago, IN.

John met Janice Engle while visiting their parents lake cottages in Koontz Lake, IN in the summer of 1972. They were united in marriage on October 27, 1973 at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Parish in East Chicago. They recently celebrated 50 years of marriage in 2023.

John started his own car dealership, Celebrity Motors, forty-five years ago. John was a man of determination and strong work ethic. He continued working into his eighties.

His family will miss his fun-loving and jovial personality. He could often be found at the family cottage on Koontz Lake enjoying “lake life.” He was a fisherman at heart and loved boating on the water. Every Sunday, their family would spend precious time together making memories.

John was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church for over 35 years.

John is survived by his loving wife, Janice and daughters, Amy (Brian) Jackson and Sara Palkovich (Fiancé – Sherman Yoder); grandchildren, Eli (11) and Caden (7); brother, Dennis (Diane) Palkovich; along with several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, John Sr. and Martina; sister, Martina “Teena” Phillips; and baby granddaughter, Kaley (Sara).

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 2, 2024 from 1:00-3:00pm EST at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 6835 Union Rd, Plymouth, IN 46563. Funeral services will immediately follow at 3:00pm EST with Pastor Dennis Wenzel officiating.

Burial will take place at Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church, 6835 Union Rd, Plymouth, IN 46563.

A special note of appreciation to Brian Jackson, Sherman Yoder, and Johnny Phillips, his nephew. He thought the world of your actions in his final months. Your kindness is lovingly remembered by his family.