10/28/2026
A SPECIAL RESOLUTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA, HONORING THE LIFE AND PUBLIC SERVICE OF JOHN JOSEPH VOORDE
WHEREAS, the Common Council of the City of South Bend wishes to formally recognize and honor the extraordinary life of John Joseph Voorde, who passed away on September 2, 2026, after dedicating forty years of his life to serving his community as an elected official and in a distinguished career of public service; and
WHEREAS, John Voorde served the people of South Bend for a total of 15 years as an At-Large member of the Common Council, where he participated in the deliberation of legislation and public policy affecting neighborhoods, economic development, public safety, infrastructure, zoning, and the quality of life of the City's residents; and
WHEREAS, during his tenure on the Common Council, John served in numerous leadership and committee roles, including Council President, contributing his experience, judgment, and commitment to the City's legislative process; and
WHEREAS, John subsequently served as Portage Township Assessor and then for 12 years as City Clerk, where his extensive knowledge of municipal government and dedication to public service continued to benefit the City and its residents, holding his staff to the highest of standards; and
WHEREAS, John was known for his warmth, quick wit, personable nature, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Those who have served with him witnessed firsthand his spirit of excellence, deep commitment to all residents, patience, and professional leadership. While remaining true to his convictions, he understood that effective public service required listening to different perspectives, finding common ground, and working across political differences for the good of the community.
WHEREAS, John's contributions to South Bend extended far beyond the offices he held. His civic leadership, institutional knowledge, humor, friendship, and commitment to the community left a lasting impression on the City and on the many people who had the privilege of working with and knowing him; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA:
Section I. The Common Council hereby honors and commemorates the life and public service of John Joseph Voorde, and expresses its profound gratitude for his many years of service to the City of South Bend and its residents.
Section II. The Common Council extends its deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to John's daughter, Emily Voorde, his siblings, extended family, friends, former colleagues, and all who mourn his passing.
Section III. In John’s passing, our entire community will miss him greatly. The Common Council directs that this Resolution be spread upon the permanent records of the City of South Bend as a testament to John's lifetime of public service, his love for South Bend, and the lasting imprint he leaves on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Signed this 26th day of October in the year 2026 in the City of South Bend, the County of St. Joseph, in the State of Indiana.
Yesterday, the South Bend Common Council presented Emily Voorde with a special resolution honoring the life and public service of her father, John Joseph Voorde, former South Bend City Clerk and former Councilmember.
