Vincent MERIBELA

25 JUN 1922 - 17 DEC 2021

• BIRTH: 25 JUN 1922, Mishawaka, St Joseph. IN
• DEATH: 17 DEC 2021, Mishawaka, St Joseph. IN

1. +Patricia Ann MERIBELA
2.  Geraldine MERIBELA

INDEX

[N30683] Vincent Meribela
June 25, 1922 - Dec 17, 2021

Vincent Meribela, 99, died peacefully at home on Dec 17th,2021. He was born June 25, 1922 in Mishawaka, Indiana to Mario and Carmela Meribela who preceded him in death. On Feb13th, 1944 he married Evelyn Bogunia who also preceded him in death. His daughter Geraldine Meribela, his granddaughters Rachel Bellovich and Ashely Meribela and stepdaughter Gina Webster also preceded him in death. Surviving are his daughters Janice Taylor, Patricia Bellovich (Michael), Barbara Dodd (Kerry), Sharon Meribela Long and sons Mario Meribela (Brenda) and Anthony Underly (Tricia). Also surviving are 52 grand, great grand and great-great grandchildren. Vincent served his country from 1942 to 1945 in the Army as part of the 99th Infantry Division “Battle Babies” and fought at the Battle of the Bulge. He was honorably discharged in 1945. He joined the Mishawaka Police department in 1947 and held many ranks including Chief of Police. He retired from the Police department in 1984. He was a longtime member of the DeAmicis Italian Club in Mishawaka and held many offices there including President. After retirement in 1984 he continued to work into his mid 90’s at Precision Electric reclaiming recyclable materials, guiding the young men and being a mentor. Vince was a man of giving nature and helped all his children, friends, neighbors, and strangers as well. He always considered the needs of others above his own. As a policeman he helped many people during his career and saved many lives. He guided many people, young and old and we are always meeting people who tell us how he jumped in the river to save kids, saved a choking child, how he straightened someone out, so they did not end up in prison. He made a positive impact on many lives whether he knew them or not. Mishawaka Mayor Dave Wood referred to him as a public servant, personal hero, good citizen, Great American and beloved friend and honored him by ordering flags to half-mast. Friends may visit with the family on Tuesday, December 21, from 4-7pm at Hahn Funeral Home, 505 W. 8 Street, Mishawaka. Funeral Services for Vincent will be held on Wednesday, December 22, at the funeral home at 10am. Friends are welcome to visit one hour prior to the service. Military honors for Vincent will follow the service at the funeral home. Vincent will be laid to rest in a private graveside service at Fairview Cemetery. To leave the family an online condolence www.hahnfuneralhomes.com
Posted online on December 18, 2021
Published in South Bend Tribune