About Warren Township
Warren Township, nestled in the heart of St. Joseph County, Indiana, is a vibrant community with a rich history and abundant natural beauty. Covering an area of 32.95 square miles, the township is a blend of picturesque landscapes, environmental resources, and significant historical landmarks.
Historical Background
Warren Township, named in honor of Dr. Joseph Warren, a patriot of the American Revolutionary War, has a storied past tied closely to the broader history of St. Joseph County. The township’s development is intertwined with the expansion of transport routes and settlement patterns in Northern Indiana. Key historical figures and early settlers contributed to the region’s growth, transforming it from a frontier area to a thriving township.
Geography and Natural Resources
The township features a diverse terrain with several lakes, including Bass Lake, Chamberlain Lake, and Mud Lake, providing scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. The area is characterized by its blend of land (32.11 square miles) and water (0.84 square miles), making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Demographics and Education
As of the 2020 census, Warren Township had a population of 7,821, reflecting a diverse and growing community. The South Bend Community School Corporation serves the educational needs of the township, providing quality education to its younger residents.
Governance
The township is governed by a trustee, Robert (Bobby K) Kruszynski, who oversees various administrative functions and community services. The governance structure ensures that the township’s needs are met and that it continues to thrive as a part of St. Joseph County.
Points of Interest
Warren Township boasts several points of interest that highlight its historical and natural significance. The township’s lakes are popular spots for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities, while its proximity to South Bend offers additional cultural and recreational amenities.Warren Township includes several unincorporated communities such as Chain-O-Lakes, Crumstown, Lydick, and Westfield, each adding to the township’s unique charm.
Robert "Bobby K" Kruczynski
Trustee
Bobby’s tenure in public service spans more than 50 years. Prior to becoming Trustee, Bobby served as a St. Joseph County Councilman for District A. His tenure also includes 17 years as Superintendent of the St. Joseph County Highway Department.
Eric Griffin
Board President
Eric is a Firefighter/Paramedic for the City of South Bend. He also serves as an instructor for the South Bend Fire Academy and as President of South Bend Firefighters Local 362 of the International Association of Fire Fighters.
Emily Rupchock
Board Secretary
For nearly 20 years, Emily has been involved in early childhood education and development services in St. Joseph County. She currently serves as Program Manager, Early Childhood Development, for the National League of Cities.
Wendy Yuhasz
Board Member
Currently in her second term on the Board, Wendy is a lifelong Warren Township resident. She worked several years at Liberty Mutual in Mishawaka before becoming a licensed massage therapist. She has been involved for nearly two decades with the Lydick Lions Club, the past eight years serving as club President.
Fire Services
Warren Township Fire Department expanded in 2025 as the result of a partnership between Warren and Portage townships. The newly formed St. Joseph County Fire Territory continues our longstanding history of safeguarding lives and property across our community. We prioritize proactive planning and capability development to meet future needs and enhance operational efficiency.
Our focus on public education and preventive services aims to ensure community safety before emergencies occur, representing the most effective and cost-efficient approach to public safety.
We strive to deliver high-quality emergency medical care based on evidence-backed practices, aiming to optimize outcomes and maintain residents’ quality of life.
By equipping our firefighters with cutting-edge tools and comprehensive training, we empower them to achieve the best possible outcomes in every emergency situation.
The St. Joseph County Fire Territory is dedicated to providing expert-level service with a comprehensive approach to ensuring public safety.