James Robert Palus, Jr., 68 years old, passed away on Thursday, November 5, 2026 at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Mishawaka.

James was born on February 23, 1958 in South Bend, to the late James Robert Palus, Sr. and Mary Ann (Piechorowski) Palus. Along with his parents, James is preceded in death by his grandson, Jayden.

On September 26, 1981, James married his loving wife, Doreen (Lukas) Palus, who survives, along with their children, Adrienne (Richard) Springstead, Erika (Brandon) Migues, Mallory (Shawn) Durr, and James Robert Palus, III; grandchildren, Giselle, Joseph, Patrick, Finn, Aislynn, Warren, and Emmitt; sister, Debra (Brian) Emmons; brothers, David (Marcia) Palus, Robert (Rosalyn) Palus; and his beloved Bichon Frise, Buddy.

James was a best friend to Doreen for 50 years and a loving husband for 45. He loved watching Notre Dame sports with a Pepsi in hand. Being in construction management for his entire career, he was known as Mr. Fix-it. He was the person everyone turned to when something needed repairing, building, or figuring out, always willing to lend his time to help others. Above all, James was a devoted family man who cherished every opportunity to spend time with his loved ones. He especially enjoyed going for walks with his beloved pup, Buddy, who was never far from his side.

Visitation for James will be held from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Monday, November 9, 2026 at St. Joseph Funeral Home, 824 S. Mayflower Rd., South Bend. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 am on Tuesday, November 10, 2026 at the St. Joseph Cemetery Chapel, with Burial to immediately follow.

Online condolences can be made at sjfh.net.

11/09/2026 djb