David Frank Gerschoffer

November 16, 1956 ~ July 11, 2025 (age 68)

David Frank Gerschoffer, 68, of South Bend, Indiana, has joined his beloved brothers Neil and Mark in what we can only assume is a very loud and lively reunion in heaven.

Born on November 16, 1956, in South Bend, Dave spent most of his life in the city he loved (and sometimes cursed at, affectionately). He was a proud graduate of Riley High School, where he was a standout athlete. Dave briefly left South Bend to serve in the United States Marine Corps, where he continued his tradition of dedication, discipline, and colorful language.

He recently retired from United Beverage in South Bend, where he left behind a legacy of pride, laughter, and enough curse words to echo through the break room for generations to come. His coworkers may still be hearing his voice (or at least pretending to, just to get out of things). David was an avid sports fan and especially loved the BEARS. He also bartended for years on Sundays at the Gerschoffer family bar, Jovi’s , where he rooted for the bears and might have served you a timely drink dependent on what was happening during whatever game was on at the time.

In retirement, David became nothing short of a saint—caring tirelessly for his mother, Viv, and his brother Kerry. He balanced this role with his much-deserved ritual of “just two beers” at the Green Star or Rum Village Inn, where stories flow as freely as the beers. As stoic as David was, he enjoyed this tradition immensely. David was also known for “Irish exits” and his passing was a monumental example of this.

David was preceded in death by his father, Papa Joe Gerschoffer; his stepfather, Les Kruger; his brothers, Mark and Neil Gerschoffer; and his niece, Ashley Gerschoffer.

He is survived by his devoted mother, Vivian Kruger; his brothers Kerry and Paul Gerschoffer; his nephews Daniel (Amy) Carter, Westley (Aimee) Carter; and his favorite niece (widely recognized), Melanie (Gary) Fischer. He also leaves behind great-nephews and nieces: Anthony Davis, Devin Bell, Jacob Carter, Joseph (Robin) Carter, Jimmy Fischer, Charles Carter, Wyatt Carter, Brooke (Rusty) Higgins, Bailey (Zach) Zalas, Lexia Carter, Meghan Carter and Chloe Carter.

David’s absence will be deeply felt—but his stoic nature, sense of humor and unapologetically honest spirit will live on in stories told at his favorite “2 beer establishments”, family gatherings, over a cold beer, or during good-natured family debates and euchre games.

A Celebration of David’s life will be held on Friday, August 8, 2025 at Bowlers Country Club, 55839 Pine Rd, South Bend, IN from 4:00pm to 8:00pm. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests raising a glass in his honor-just two beers, of course.  Palmer Funeral Home-Guisinger Chapel is assisting with arrangements.  Online condolences may be offered to David’s family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

07/15/2025 DEC

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