Community says its farewell to Jaworski’s Market

SOUTH BEND, Ind, -- The doors are closing on a family legacy at Jaworski’s Market, but the community made sure to show up one last time, to carry on their own family traditions.

Lines formed before opening on the market’s final day for the closing sale, bearing cold temperatures and snow Saturday afternoon.

Jaworski’s Market has served Michiana for 27 years, weathering challenges that included tornado damage in 2001. Now, its future is uncertain following the death of owner Chris Jaworski.

“It genuinely feels like a vital part of our community is done and gone,” said Mishawaka resident John Cole.

For the final day, Jaworski family members and longtime staff paused to take in the moment, serving house-made pot pie and hot dogs to customers waiting outside. Inside, shoppers stocked up on Jaworski specialties — from brats to whole hams — for the last time.

“It really feels like a pillar of our community is gone,” Cole said.

Cole said he has shopped at Jaworski’s weekly for the past 20 years. On closing day, he said it wasn’t even about the meat.

“I don’t even really necessarily need the meat, but I just wanted to experience this one last time,” he said.

Customers said Jaworski’s stood apart for its quality and commitment to the craft, something many believe is becoming increasingly rare.

Among the crowds were families and children, some younger than the traditions that brought their parents and grandparents through the doors week after week.

Friends and family of the Jaworski's, who worked the closeout sale, said the family is immensely grateful for the community’s support and the overwhelming turnout.

Though the market is closing, many customers said Jaworski’s legacy will live on in the memories — and traditions — of future generations.