In Memory
Edward J. Banfi
September 19, 1955 ~ April 19, 2026
Edward “Ed” J. Banfi, 70, a lifelong resident of South Bend, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2026, following a courageous battle with a long illness.
Born in South Bend on September 19, 1955, to the late Edward O. and Mary C. (Juhasz) Banfi, Ed was a man of immense character, skill, and humor. A proud 1974 graduate of Riley High School, he began his career in construction before joining AM General. His passion for mechanics extended far beyond his day job; Ed was a fixture in the local racing scene, building late-model stock cars and serving on the pit crew for his late brother-in-law, the legendary Denny Nyari, with D&N Racing.
In 1996, Ed’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Precision Lawn and Landscaping. Through his dedication and hard work, he grew it into a successful business that served the community until his retirement in 2022.
Known as the life of the party, Ed was a master storyteller who could captivate a room with his wit and warmth. He was a quintessential outdoorsman who found his greatest joy on the water. Whether he was at the helm of his speed boat or relaxing on the pontoon, his favorite summer days were those spent on the lake surrounded by his family and grandkids. His winters were just as active, filled with the roar of snowmobiles and trips to the woods for hunting and fishing. A devoted fan of Notre Dame Football, Ed’s Saturdays were often dedicated to cheering on the Irish.
Above all, Ed was a teacher and a helper. He took great pride in passing down his knowledge to his children and grandchildren, teaching them the intricacies of fixing cars and the value of a job well done. He was the man everyone could count on, always ready to lend a hand or a tool whenever needed.
Ed is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Jacqueline M. (Stauffer) Banfi; his children, Jennifer (Amando) Williams of South Bend, Angela (Charles) Matheny of Mishawaka, and Edward D. (Joslin Marazita) Banfi. He was a doting grandfather to six grandchildren; Alexander Williams, Justin Williams, Aubriana Collins, Amando Williams Jr., Edward Banfi IV, Jordan Williams, and four great-grandchildren who will miss his guidance and stories dearly. He also leaves behind his four sisters: Sue Nyari, Nancy Stroup, Rebecca Banfi, and Linda (Michael) Ratkay.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Mary Banfi and his brother in law Denny Nyari.
Visitation for Ed will be held from 12pm until 1pm on Friday April 24, 2026, at the Palmer Funeral Home-Guisinger Chapel, 3718 S. Michigan St. South Bend. A funeral service will begin at 1pm.
Online condolences to the family or flower arrangements may be sent via the Palmer Funeral Homes website at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com and memorial contributions in Ed's name may be made to Riley Children's Hospital.
4/23/2026 djb
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