William John Sobolewski III

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of William J. Sobolewski. William was born on August 30, 1956. He resided in South Bend, Indiana, and passed away peacefully at home on October 20, 2024.

William, or “BJ” as he was known to his closest people, was a beloved spouse, father, brother, son, and friend. He had a passion for golf and played in many different courses around the world. He enjoyed bowling, tennis, fishing, and many other sports throughout his life. He always had a competitive side and put 110% in anything he did.

William was known for his kindness and care of others, often putting others before himself.  He was a true friend of many. He had an infectious laugh, and his love of life was felt by those around him. Some of the best memories of his family and friends were just sitting around with him and talking. Whether on a back porch eating pork and beans, a family picnic, or just on the front porch bench, you could always get lost in conversation with him. He always had a positive attitude even when things looked grim and took it as a personal mission to make others around him okay. His strength, compassion, and good character made him a phenomenal human being that most of us could never live up to. His loss will be felt by many family and friends.

William worked as an engineer in plastic companies including Sobo Plastics, Thermal Plastics, Solvay Plastics and JMS Plastics. He traveled the world in his jobs, spending time in China, Taiwan, and Europe. He was always a strong leader who was well liked in all his roles. 

William was preceded in death by his parents, William Sobolewski and Beverly Kemmer, as well as his sister, Joanna Miller. William is survived by his wife, Joan (Opfer) Sobolewski; Donald Kemmer (Austinburg, Ohio) who some would call stepfather, but he called him “dad,” as he was the one who helped raise him; siblings, Valori (Ed) Curie (Jefferson, Ohio) and Donna (Joseph) Campbell (Dorset, Ohio); children, William Sobolewski (South Bend, Indiana), Angela (Michael) Born (Ocala, Florida), Kristen Sobolewski (Mishawaka, Indiana), and Amber Sobolewski (Elkhart, Indiana); and stepchildren, Jessica Wells, Teresa Girton, and Heather Brown.  William had nine grandchildren, four step-grandchildren, and one great-grandchild as well as countless other family and friends. 

A memorial service and gathering will be held from 2:30-5:30pm on Saturday, October 26, 2024 at South Bend First Church of the Nazarene, 51690 N. Ironwood Road, South Bend, IN.

Elkhart Cremation Services has been entrusted with his care.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of William John Sobolewski III, please visit our Tree Store.