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Victor “Vic” Joseph Karbowski Jr., also lovingly known as “Hillbilly”, 49, currently of South Bend and formerly of Crown Point, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, in Elkhart. He was born on June 6, 1976, in Crown Point, to Victor Joseph Sr. and Barbara (Meeks) Karbowski.
Vic is survived by his wife, Jeannie (Braden) Karbowski; daughters, Stephanie Marquardt and Rebecca Karbowski; grandchildren, Willow and Monica; mother, Barbara Karbowski; sister, Heather (Randy) Drechney; close friends, Tom and Vanessa Hanson, Mel Whitefield, Steve York, and Katie Garcia; beloved tabby cat, Gummy Bear; and a loving host of nieces, nephews, “stray-children”, and beloved biker friends.
Vic was preceded in death by his father, Victor Joseph Karbowski Sr.
Vic worked for 23 years at Roadway Trucking Company in Chicago Heights, worked for two years at the Boys & Girls Club for Lake and Porter Counties, and most recently, worked in maintenance for American Senior Communities in the Michiana area.
Vic enjoyed “attempting” to camp and taking vacations with his wife and family, going to fish in Minnesota, taking his motorcycle through the Smoky Mountains, and hiking in Wisconsin. He adored his beloved Harley Davidson, even participating in various benefit rides for Riley Children’s Hospital over the years. Vic could also be found hunting or fishing in his younger years, enjoying nature’s beauty in the meantime.
Most importantly, family was a big part of Vic’s life, especially when it came to his granddaughters. He loved making them smile and creating memories with them they will cherish for years to come.
Vic will best be remembered as a man who, in his own words, was always a “ray of f***ing sunshine”. He, along with all the love and joy he shared, will be dearly missed.
In accordance with Vic’s wishes, cremation has been chosen. A memorial gathering of family and friends will be held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at Calumet Park Funeral Chapel, 7535 Taft Street, Merrillville, IN 46410, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
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SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS SENDING PRAYERS TO YOU ALL 🙏🏽
He will be greatly missed at Riverside Village, Elkhart, IN.
Worked with vick at the boys and girls clubs. I couldn’t have been more blessed to be put with a man that was as knowledgeable and level headed as vick. He was an amazing mentor and a man I can say I hope to meet again one day.
Vic was truly one of a kind. From the moment I met him, his energy was undeniable and his willingness to help stood out in every interaction. He took great pride in his work, and it showed in the way he supported everyone around him, with care, consistency, and a genuine smile.
Even in my short time knowing Vic, it was clear that there wasn’t anything he wouldn’t do to lend a hand. He didn’t just maintain our spaces, he helped create an environment where our staff and young people could thrive. That kind of dedication doesn’t go unnoticed, and it certainly won’t be forgotten.
His impact continues to resonate with me, and I know I’m not alone in that. Vic made a difference in ways both big and small, and his presence will be deeply missed across the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana.
My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.