BART C. PRUZIN

Age 48, Of Schererville formally of Merrillville, IN was called home by The Lord on Thursday, February 22, 2024. Bart is survived by his loving father, John Sr.(DeeDee); best friend and brother, John Jr.; his beloved nephew and niece, Evan and Sarah Pruzin; many dear and loving aunts, uncles and  many amazing cousins. He is preceded in death by his devoted mother, Pat Pruzin, who loved  and  cared for him dearly.

Bart was a graduate of Merrillville High School where he was a state champion with the special needs basketball team. He was so proud to be a part of the Special Olympics and enjoyed basketball, volleyball, and bowling. He was proud to be a part of the Munster Challenger Baseball "Family" where his dedicated nephew, Evan, would help coach. Those that knew Bart, know he loved music.  Watching him sing and dance brought joy to many a heart.  He performed, as well, with the Hoosier Strings Jr and Hoosier Hrvati Tamburitza groups from the CFU Lodge 170.   In the early 90's, he was an honorary Duquesne University Tamburitzan when his brother, John, was a member. Recently he attended several TAMBURITZAN performances to watch his niece, Sarah, as she carries on the family tradition. He enjoyed traveling with his family and was blessed to visit Israel and Rome where he met Pope John Paul II. His travels also took him to Croatia and Greece. Family trips to Wisconsin and Pittsburgh were two of his favorite places to visit.

Bart loved attending Innovations in Learning, his Day program which was started in 2009.  As a member since its inception, his Mom was able to share this new journey with him, where he was always treated with such loving care, and he loved everyone.

It's amazing how many lives he touched and all the great memories he made with others, before passing away at the young age of 48. His whole life had been a challenge, he never complained, just inspired.  It's apparent the Lord gave him to all of us to learn a very valuable lesson in conquering adversity and in counting our blessings instead of life's obstacles. What a beautiful gift he was!!!!!

We would like to thank Fitness Pointe in Munster,  their staff, and the members for making him always feel welcome. Also, all the nuns, hospital staff, doctors and Hospice of the Calumet for his tender care as he transitioned to his new journey. We believe that Heaven has another angel that is singing and praising in Heaven's Choir.

Bart's visitation will be held Saturday and Sunday, March 2 and 3,2024 from 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Solan Pruzin Funeral Home, Schererville, IN 46375. A Celebration of His Life will be held at 12:30 PM on Monday, March 4, 2024 directly at St. Michael Archangel Catholic Church, 1 Wilhelm Street, Schererville, IN with Rev. Martin J. Dobrzynski officiating. Services will conclude at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations to Innovations In Learning or the SHARE Foundation, would be greatly appreciated.