Sick Call/Last Call

Paul is survived by his son, Kevin Jennings; sister, Cynthia (Walter) Jagiela; brother, Philip (Sandra) Jennings; nephews: Matt, Eric and Aaron; nieces: Janet and Suzie.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents: Edward and Marie Jennings; and brother, Michael Jennings.

Paul served in the US Navy. He retired from the Teamsters and was a member of Izaak Walton. Paul enjoyed boating basketball, football and especially coaching sports while Kevin was growing up.

Friends may visit with the family on Saturday, May 25, 2024 at Lily Cremation & Burial, 2700 Willowcreek Rd., Portage, IN 46368 from 1:00 PM until the time of the Funeral Service at 3:00 PM.

Visit Paul's online guestbook at www.LilyFuneral.com 219-663-2500.

https://www.lilyfuneral.com/obituaries/Paul-F-Jennings?obId=31584180

Joe James, Age 84

of Portage, passed away Wednesday, August 3, 2022. He was born August 21, 1937, in McHenry, KY to Obed and Mary (Austin) James. Joe made his career as a Steelworker with Bethlehem Steel for 40 years before retirement. He was a member of the USW Local 6787, Hoosier CoHo Club, and Izaak Walton League of America - Miller Chapter. Joe was an avid fisherman, who enjoyed indulging in a beer. He was also handy around the house and vehicles. Joe will be remembered as a hardworking man who was a loving husband, father, and grandfather.

On July 16, 1955, Joe married Shirley Moore, who preceded him in death in 2019. He is survived by their sons: Jerry James of Portage, Bruce James of Portage, and Brian James of LaPorte; grandchildren: Heidi Doolittle, John (Kara) James, Jason James, and Jessica (Adam) Shively; great-grandchildren: Logan, Evan, Landon, Lexie, Lilly, Hunter, Jackson, David, Austin, and Brendan; great-great-granddaughter, Ryatt; and siblings: Peggy Dean, Jim James, and Priscilla Smith. He was preceded in death by his father, Obed James; mother, Mary Ashby; brothers: Larry and Ricky James; and great-grandson, Liam.

A visitation will be held on Monday, August 8, 2022, from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at MOELLER FUNERAL HOME, 104 Roosevelt Rd., Valparaiso, with the funeral service beginning at 12:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Angelcrest Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.

Thomas G. Turley Jr.

passed away July 14, 2022.

He was born August 26, 1948 in Kokomo, Indiana to Thomas G. Turley Sr. (Deceased) and Clare M. Karns (Surviving).

On April 7, 1968, he married the love of his life, Billie J. (Jeanie) Rexstrew.

He served in the U.S. Army and was sent to Vietnam from 1968-1969. He retired from General Motors in Fort Wayne, Indiana in 2006.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jeanie, his three children; Thomas G. Turley lll (Wife, Dyan) Peru, Indiana, Trina J. Barnes (Husband, Chris) Peru, Indiana, Matthew S. Turley (Wife, Evelyn) Peru, Indiana, step-mother, Vickie Turley, Kokomo, Indiana, step-father, Fred Rutherford, Kokomo, Indiana, 9 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, 3 brothers; Tim Turley, Florida, Chris Turley, Kokomo, Indiana, Don Rutherford, Mississippi, 2 sisters; Erica Cartwright, Lebanon, Indiana, Monica Lamons, Kokomo, Indiana, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He has a passion for flying since he was a teenager and achieved that goal when he got his pilot's license August 17, 1995.

He loved playing his guitar and being on the water on his boat and creating life-long memories for all who shared it with him.

He was a member of First Assembly of God in Peru, Indiana, VFW Post 1152 in Kokomo, Indiana, Isaac Walton League in Portage, Indiana, and Marquetta Yacht Club in Portage, Indiana.

He will be greatly missed by all his family and friends.

See ya later, Tom.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 21, 2022 from 4pm to 6pm at Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home, 105 West Third Street, Peru, Indiana. Funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Friday, July 22, 2022 at 2pm with Pastor John Goble officiating. Burial will take place at Peoria Cemetery in Peru, Indiana. Military rites will be provided.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.

William “Bill” E. Hargrove, age 60,

of Hobart, IN passed away on Wednesday, July 6, 2022.

Bill was born on July 10, 1961 in Gary, IN to Burnet and Loretta (nee Hill) Hargrove. He was a self-employed carpenter. Bill married his love of his life, Barbara L. (nee Mills) on July 16th, 1994. They spent 27 years of loving marriage together. He served in the Marine Corp with a year of service in Japan.

Bill enjoyed fishing on his own boat, duck hunting, and playing baseball. He played for the Marines All Stars, travel baseball team. He also enjoyed volunteering for Toys for Tots every year.

Bill is survived by his wife, Barbara; daughter, Amanda (Bryan Baker) Hargrove; mother, Loretta; siblings: Denise (John) Ramirez and Christopher Hargrove; parents-in-law, Bill and Barbara Mills; many nieces and nephews: Sheri, Adam, Cathryn, Vanessa (Jake), Brandon.

Bill is preceded in death by his father, Burnet Hargrove.

Family and friends may gather at Rees Funeral Homes Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Avenue, Portage on Thursday, July 14th 2022 from 12:00-2:00 P.M. A memorial service and military funeral honors will follow at 2:00 P.M with Pastor Scott Mauch officiating. Cremation entrusted to Rees Funeral Home Olson Chapel.

In Lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are preferred to Toys for Tots and the Hobart Humane Society (2054 In-130, Hobart, IN 46342). To make a donation to Toys for Tots, please Click Here.

John R. Harbeck, Age 78

of Valparaiso passed away Tuesday, April 26, 2022. He was born December 27, 1943, to Robert & Eva (Hough) Harbeck, graduated from Washington Township High School in 1962, and served proudly with the U.S. Navy. John made his career with Bethlehem Steel for 46 years as an electronics technician. His myriad of interests spanned guitars & bluegrass music, ham radio, genealogy, award winning sharp shooting, racing his Ford Falcon at US 30 dragstrip, and a founding member of the Washington Twp Volunteer Fire Department. Most things he did with full enthusiasm and commitment and was a great storyteller. It was his love for steam trains that led him to his long-time role as a member of the Hesston Steam Museum that brought him the greatest joy.

Survivors include sisters, Katherine AKA "Barbara" (Charles) Cope of Valparaiso, Alice (Vernon "Bud") Fitzwater of Knox, niece, Melissa (John) Culbertson, great-nephew, Will Culbertson, special grand nieces, Scarlett & Gabrielle Ward, and his faithful feline chair buddy "Willie."

A remembrance will be held Saturday, May 14th from 11 am to 1 pm at Angelcrest Cemetery Chapel, 180 E. 600 N., Valparaiso. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made Hesston Steam Museum or the Independent Cat Society.

John Kusmiz,

Passed away in July 2021, No details at this time

Michael "Pooch" Pietrzycki, Age 52

MARCH 21, 1969 – JUNE 27, 2021 passed away suddenly but peacefully on June 27, 2021 at the age of 52. He was born on March 21, 1969 in Chicago, Illinois. Pooch is survived by his sister Sue, and nephew Mike.

Pooch graduated from College of St. Francis in 1991 with a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting. He has worked for the Archdiocese of Chicago Catholic Cemeteries for many years.

Pooch was an avid boater who loved life and lived it on his own terms. He always had a smile and a kind word for everyone, and was the kind of guy would give you the shirt off his back. When you were with him you couldn't help but have fun - he had the most infectious laugh. Pooch played football for the Calumet City Eagles and then T.F. North Meteors. He loved the Chicago Bears and White Sox. He also loved to travel and had so many great trips with his friends and family.

Pooch will be lovingly remembered by his sister, nephew, nieces, aunts and uncles, cousins, and many friends. In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the American Cancer Society.

A memorial visitation will be held on Thursday July 1, 2021 from 4:00pm until 8:00pm at Blake- Lamb Funeral Home 4727 W. 103rd Street Oak Lawn.

Family requests all attendees wear masks.

Gerald B. Kenney, Age 57

November 19, 1963 - April 18, 2021

Age 57, late of Manhattan passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 18, 2021.

Per Gerald's wishes cremation rites will be respectfully addressed and inurnment will be held at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery.

Rex Alan Hood, age 68

of Portage, IN passed away on Saturday, March 27, 2021. He was born on September 23, 1952 in Valparaiso, IN to William and Hilda (Sharpe) Hood.

Rex is survived by his son, Dr. Rex A. Hood; sister, Marjorie (John) Judy; brothers, Robin Hood, Chuck (Cheryl) Hood and Carl (Elaine) Hood and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Hood and Hilda M. Tomkinson; wife, Shirley Hood.

Rex graduated from Chesterton High School Class of 1972 . He retired from Arcelor Mittal in 2012 after 42 years. He was a passionate mariner and fisherman.

Edmonds & Evans Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.ee-fh.com.

Elaine (Reid) Somers, Age 70

FT. MYERS, FL - Elaine (Reid) Somers 70, passed away at her winter home in Ft. Myers, Florida on May 21, 2020 surrounded by her family and loved ones. She was born to Evelyn Reid on March 20, 1950. Elaine was retired from Advantage Sales And Services as a Representative and worked many years at numerous jobs to support her children. June 19, 2005 she married Don Somers "The Love Of Her Life". Elaine loved her Ft. Myers home and spending time with her neighbors who became like family to her and Don. Elaine also loved her Miller home and being so close to the beach. Her summers at home in Miller were spent being with her grandchildren and family that she loved, and visiting her friends.

Elaine was preceded in death by her mother Evelyn Reid and her sister Donna Martinez. Elaine is survived by her husband, Donald Somers; sister, Virginia; children: Tammy (Eric), Tony (Lita) David; daughter-in-law, Carrie; grandchildren: Nicholas , Sahia, Alicia, Mia, Kris, Sammie, Donnie, Logan, Ashton. Elaine also leaves many aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews who dearly loved her. A special mention to Jill, Pat , Alice and to all who helped with her care, visits to lift her spirits, Prayers, and to just be there for her. Elaine fought a very hard battle with determination and grace.

Her husband and family would like to welcome friends and family to "A Celebration Of Her Life" on Saturday July 18, 2020, from 1:00-5:00p.m. at The Portage Isaak Walton 1250 Crisman Rd. ( Off of St. RD. 249 ) Portage In. This Celebration Of Life is what Elaine would of liked. If you are unable to attend a donation in her name to ALS would be greatly appreciated.

To Plant Memorial Trees in memory, please visit our Sympathy Store.

Published in The Times on Jul. 15, 2020.

Emil J. Garcia, age 83,

passed away on Wednesday, June 3, 2020. He is survived by his son, Andrew Garcia; daughter: Linda Samplawski; three grand-daughters: Jamie Samplawski, Kelly Poole, Jill (Evan) Garrett; two great-grandchildren: Kristina Lombard and Lilith Kelley; sister Bonnie (Bill) Bosse and brother: Joseph Garcia.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Sharon of 53 years, and his parents Bonifacio and Ventura Garcia of Spain.

Mr. Garcia was a graduate of Tolleston High School, Class of 1955. He was a retired supervisor of US Steel, and he also owned and operated Lake County Music & Vending for many years.

Emil loved to travel with his wife Sharon, having been to Europe and extensively throughout the US. He also loved spending time with his family and the many friends he made in various organizations.

Emil was an avid fisherman and hunter, enjoying many fishing trips with friends to Canada. He was the Indiana Division Treasurer of the Izaak Walton League from 1999-2012, and a life member of the Porter, Glen Park and Miller Chapters. He was also a longtime member of the Elks Lodge, most recently of Highland #981, and the Griffith American Legion Post #66.

Family and friends may gather at PRUZIN BROTHERS CHAPEL (6360 Broadway, Merrillville) on Thursday, June 11, 2020 from 9:00-11:00 A.M. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 A.M. with Rev. James Meade officiating. At Rest: Calumet Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making a donation to the Izaak Walton League of America – Porter Chapter.

Please visit www.pruzinfuneralservice.com to express online condolences and view online obituary.

James W. Field, Age 78

James W. Field, age 78, of Portage, IN passed away on Wednesday, May 13, 2020 in Portage, IN. He was born on March 10, 1942 in Chicago, IL to Robert Fortiner and Jean Lenea (Busch) Field.

James is survived by his wife of 59 years, Janet (David) Field; children, Laura (Dean) Bateman, Kathleen (Tom) Zytko, James M. (Christine) Field, Jennifer (Chris) Tsoris and Gregory (Jennifer) Field; brothers, Jack (Judy) Field and Richard (Pat) Field; grandchildren, Jimmi Field, Adam (Heather) Gates, Shelby Zytko, Dylan Tsoris, Sam Zytko, Alex Tsoris, Abbey Zytko, Nathan Field, Deanna Bateman, Ivan Bateman, Tyler Field and Evan Field; 6 great grandchildren. He was loved by numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and neighbors. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Jean Field and brother, Robert L. (Marlies) Field.

James was a longtime member of the Miller Chapter of the Izaak Walton League of America. He loved fishing, camping, boating on a lake, fast/nice cars, auto racing and his gift of a green thumb for gardening. He really enjoyed unselfishly helping others.

Due to the restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 virus and the wishes of Jim, a Memorial Service officiated by Pastor Craig Forwalter will be attended by the immediate family only. Edmonds & Evans Funeral Home in Portage is in care of arrangements. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.ee-fh.com.

Byron L. Ayres, Age 73

Byron L. Ayres, age 73 of Portage, IN passed away on April 30, 2020. He was born on December 17, 1946 in Gary, IN to William and Donna (Slinkard) Ayres.

Byron is survived by his wife, Linda (Willis) Ayres; son, Thomas Vincent; daughters, Sandy Ayres, Alice (Matt) Tegtmeier and Denise Ayres; sister, Cynthia Ayres; grandchildren, Nathan Krenkel, Dustin Krenkel, Marc Ayres, Zack Vincent, Kaden Tegtmeier, Carolyn Tegtmeier and Katherine Tegtmeier and great-grandchildren, Abigale Krenkel, Duncan Krenkel and Henry Krenkel and his beautiful golden retriever, Ginger. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Bruce Ayres and daughter, Laura Vincent-Krenkel.

Byron was a 1965 graduate of Emerson High School where he is still remembered by his friends for his outstanding athletic achievements including football and State Champ on Track & Field. Following graduation, Byron enrolled in the machinist apprenticeship program at U.S. Steel. He was employed at Amoco Refinery in Whiting as a machinist. Byron was a member of OCAW-71 union and a lifetime member of the Miller chapter of the Izaak Walton Yacht Club. His greatest joy in life was being on Lake Michigan on his “yacht” the Sand Pebble along with his family, especially his grandchildren. Byron’s favorite sports teams was the Vikings Football team and the Chicago White Sox.

Private family services will be held. In lieu of flowers, contributions for a Byron Ayres Memorial Bench on the lakefront can be made to the family. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Byron L. Ayres please visit our Sympathy Store.

Passing of former Ikes member, Robert "Otto" Fiebelkorn, Age 83

Thank you so very much for taking the time to respond to my email and call me about the passing of former Ikes member, Robert "Otto" Fiebelkorn. Otto was 83 years old. After a lengthy illness and numerous, major surgeries on his neck and jaw for squamous cell cancer, he lost his battle on March 25, 2020 at our home in Three Lakes, WI with me by his side. Otto and I were together 34 years.

It's in the interest of notifying our former friends that were so dear to both of us that I write in the hope of eliciting a response from them to my email address: cannott7@gmail.com.

After he retired from Midwest Steel in 1993, we moved to our log cabin in Three Lakes, WI where we enjoyed our lives together in ten acres of the Nicolet National Forest.

Otto enjoyed all-season fishing, hunting, woodworking and, most of all, our home. He even found time to enjoy a few beers and the memories of our good times boating on "The Wunce Around" and socializing with all our good friends at THE IKES.

My best to you and thank you again.

Claire Cavanaugh

Charles A. Siar, Age 84

Charles Siar age 84 of Portage passed away on March 5, 2020.

He was born on January 20, 1936 to Earl and Marion Siar at Gary, IN. Charles worked as an electrical engineer for Bethlehem Steel. On October 11, 1958, he married Marcia Leonard. Charles and Marcia lived and raised their children in Portage. Charles is survived by his wife, Marcia G. Siar, his sons; Dale A. (David Prybylo) Siar, Dean L. Siar and David R. Siar, his brother-in-law, Thomas C. (Joyce) Leonard, brother-in-law, Brian L.(Diane) Leonard, brother-in-law, Terry C. (Sandy) Leonard. He is loved by many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents Earl and Marion (Danskin) Siar and brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Lonnie and Nancy Leonard.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, March 15, 2020 from 2:00-6:00 at the First Presbyterian Church 6225 Lute Rd., Portage, IN 46368. In Lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the VNA Hospice.

Online condolences can be given at www.ee-fh.com.

Byron L. Ayres, Age 73

Byron L. Ayres, age 73 of Portage, IN passed away on April 30, 2020. He was born on December 17, 1946 in Gary, IN to William and Donna (Slinkard) Ayres.

Passing of former Ikes member, Robert "Otto" Fiebelkorn, Age 83

It's in the interest of notifying our former friends that were so dear to both of us that I write in the hope of eliciting a response from them to my email address: cannott7@gmail.com.

After he retired from Midwest Steel in 1993, we moved to our log cabin in Three Lakes, WI where we enjoyed our lives together in ten acres of the Nicolet National Forest.

My best to you and thank you again.

Claire Cavanaugh

Charles A. Siar, Age 84

Charles Siar age 84 of Portage passed away on March 5, 2020.

Online condolences can be given at www.ee-fh.com.

Merlin "Pike" Molhoek, age 87

Merlin L. "Pike" Molhoek, age 87 of Portage, IN passed away on Wednesday, February 5, 2020 at his home. He was born on May 21, 1932 in Ann Arbor, MI to Albert and Elsie (Vander Wal) Molhoek.

Pike is survived by his loving wife, Lynn Freeman; son, Michael (Tina) Molhoek; sister, Lois Vandermeulen; four step children; three grandchildren; many nieces and one nephew; and great nephew, Kevin (Paula) Molhoek. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elsie and Albert; late wife, Margaret (Mattson) Molhoek; and brother, Roger Molhoek.

Pike retired as Chief Engineer from U.S.S. Great Lakes Fleet Inc. following 32 years of service. He was a member of Isaac Walton League, Miller Chapter for many years. Pike was a good natured person and would do anything for anyone. He had a good sense of humor and enjoyed being on his boat on a nice sunny day. Pike also enjoyed going to his favorite gambling boat, Blue Chip Casino. He will be missed by many friends and family.

Funeral Ceremony will be held on Monday, February 10, 2020 at 1:00 pm at Edmonds & Evans Funeral Home Portage Chapel, 6941 Central Ave., Portage, IN 46368. Burial will follow at McCool Cemetery, Portage, IN. Visitation will be held on Monday, February 10, 2020 from 11:00 am until the time of service at 1:00 pm at the funeral home.

Bruce Edward Ayres, age 76

, of Gary, passed away November 28, 2019. Bruce was born April 10, 1943. He was the son of the late William R. and Donna Ayres. Bruce went to Emerson High School and was in the Army Reserves. He was an active member and officer of Miller Legion Post #279, a lifetime member of the Izaak Walton League of Portage, IN., where his favorite pastime was riding the waves of Lake Michigan, in his boat “The Get Down”, as well as hosting with other Izaak Walton members many years of annual dinners. Bruce loved people and people loved Bruce. No one was a stranger to him. He was one of the most generous souls on the planet.

Bruce was preceded in death by his wife-Doris (nee Malizzo); daughter-Christine Larson. He is survived by his companion-Margaret “Peggy” Strnad; daughter-Deborah ‘Debi” (Dennis) Beamon; brother-Byron (Linda) Ayres; sister-Cynthia Ayres; three nieces-Denise Ayres, Alice Tegimeir, Sandy Ayres; granddaughter-Candy (Steve) Papaevangelore; great-grandchildren-Chloe, Cayley and Cayden; son-in-law-Jeff Larson. Bruce, we love you!! You were a fighter until the end and you will be deeply missed.

A memorial visitation for Bruce will be held on Wednesday, December 4, 2019, from 3:00 p.m. until the time of service at 5:00 p.m., at Burns Funeral Home, 701 East 7th Street. Hobart. www.burnsfuneral.com.

Catherine M. Kamiel (Paulson) "Katie" 58

formerly of Dunlo, PA, passed away after a long battle with cancer on September 29, 2019, at Chicago University Hospital.Born October 25, 1960 in Windber, PA. Daughter of the late Robert A. Sr, and Catherine C. Paulson. In addition to her parents she was preceeded in death by brothers Raymond M, and Robert A. Paulson and her paternal and maternal grandparents. Surviving are her Life Companion Dave Domke whom she loved dearly, son Robert (Ellen), daughter Janeen, granddaughters Rosa and Lily, and former husband Joseph Kamiel. Brother Steven (Theresa) Paulson and sister Christine (John) Edwards. Nieces and Nephews, Gary (Tiffani) Edwards, Josh (Caitlin) Paulson, Trista (Dustin) Wirick, Kayla (Chris) Lazration and Alexis (David) Edwards. Great nephew and nieces Landon Lazration, Averey Paulson, Alison Rhoades. Katie was employed by Walgreens distribution for 20+ years. She was a graduate of Class of 1978 at Forest Hills High School. She enjoyed long walks on the beach, loved boating, and truly loved her family. Private family service to be held in Portage, Indiana.

Larry "Butch" Hipp, age 77

of Portage, IN passed away on September 26, 2019. He was born on November 25, 1941 in LaPorte, IN to Leonard and Katherine (Zeller) Hipp.

Butch is survived by his wife, Teresita Hipp; brother, Garry Hipp; nephews, David and Garry Jr.; God-daughter, Elisa Ann Angeles and her siblings, Brad (Anita) Angeles and Adam Angeles and their children, Darian, Sophia, Lauren, Ava (GiGi) and Alex; fur baby, Prince III and numerous friends and family.

Butch was a United States Army veteran and retired from the Local 150 as an Operating Engineer. He loved to fish and hunt and especially loved his fur baby Prince III.

Celebrations of Life services to be held at a later date. Edmonds & Evans Funeral Home, Portage Chapel, is responsible for arrangements.

Norman Ralph Maple, age 75

Norman Ralph Maple, age 75, of Lake Station, passed away peacefully at VNA Hospice, in Valparaiso, on April 12, 2019, after a short battle with bile duct cancer. He was born December 31, 1943 to Ralph and Opal (nee McCreary) Maple. Norm graduated from River Forest High School, Class of 1962. He served stateside in the Army during the Vietnam era. Norm retired from Arcelor Mittal (Burns Harbor) after 36 years as a welder. He will be greatly missed by his loving family and dear friends.

Norm was preceded in death by his parents-Ralph and Opal; stepfather-Mike Kopcha and his siblings. He is survived by his wife-Carrie (nee Czubik) Maple; daughter-Janice Domen.

Per Norm’s wishes, there will be no formal services. Burns Funeral Home (Hobart) entrusted with arrangements. www.burnsfuneral.com.

Lois O’Meara, age 72

Lois O’Meara, age 72, of Portage, passed away January 26, 2019. She was a good friend to all and will be missed. A Memorial Service for Lois will be held privately at a later date. Burns Funeral Home (Hobart) entrusted with arrangements. www.burnsfuneral.com.

Steven G. White, age 75

of Portage passed away on Monday, September 3, 2018. He is survived by wife of 45 years: Dawn; five children: Warren (Sally) Burke, Tammy (Randy) Westmoreland, Stephen Burke, Steven (Donna) White, Dan (Lisa) White; brother: Skip (Denise) White; sister: Renelle (John) Densley; ten grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. Steven is preceded in death by parents Paul and Marge White, brother Fred White, and two sisters Diane Taylor and Sandra Bailey. Steven was a member of St. Peters Lutheran Church, Portage Izaak Walton League, and the Marquette Yacht Club. He was a graduate of Portage High School and was a retired builder in Portage for many years. Steven enjoyed boating and snowmobiling. Family and friends may meet at St. Peter's Lutheran Church (6540 Central Ave., Portage) on Monday, September 10, 2018 from 2:00-4:00 PM with service to follow at 4:00 PM with Pastor Ben Ahlersmeyer officiating. Memorials are preferred to the VNA Hospice. Arrangements entrusted to PRUZIN BROTHERS FUNERAL SERVICE, PORTAGE.

Harlan E. "Abe" Abraham Age 77

- Harlan E. "Abe" Abraham, 77 of Portage, passed away Friday, June 22, 2018. He was born October 11, 1940 in Gary to Roy and Stella (Johnson) Abraham. Abe proudly served in the United States Marine Corps and was honorably discharged as a Second Lieutenant. He graduated from Ball State University and taught middle school science at Fegely Middle School in Portage before becoming a Bail Bondsman with Bertholet Bail Bonds. Abe was a member of the American Legion in Portage, AMVETS, Moose Club, Elks Club, and the VFW. He enjoyed fishing, traveling, reading, and watching movies. Abe will be remembered by his family as a funny, friendly, outgoing man, who always saw the good in others. Abe is survived by his daughter, Desiree (Andrew) D'Alessandro of Pennsylvania; grandsons, Hunter and Parker; and ex-wife, Cheryl McInturf of Valparaiso. He was preceded in death by his parents. Following cremation, no services are planned at this time. Moeller Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements.

Stanley Paul Kusiak age 63

passed away suddenly June 19, 2018 at his home. Stanley was born March 13, 1955 in East Chicago, Indiana to the late John and Mary Kusiak. Stan is survived by his brother Joseph(Robin) Kusiak; nieces Maryann(Jason) McCauley, Katherine Kusiak; nephews Anthony Kusiak Jr. , David (Lisa)Kusiak and Shaun (Keli) Kusiak; great nieces Jordan, Julia, Elizabeth, and Ashlyn; great nephews Trevor, Ryan, and Aidan. He was preceded in death by his brother Anthony Kusiak Sr. and sister-in-law Helen (nee Camacho). Stanley graduated from Roosevelt High School and attended Wabash Valley College. He was a proud member of the Union and retired from the CTA. Stan was a member of Izaak Walton League, Miller Chapter, Southern Lake County Conservation Club, and Sons of American Legion, Post 80. Stan enjoyed music, was passionate about protecting the environment and loved to spend time with his nieces and nephews. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

“Na Zdrowie” to all his friends.

Gordon J. “Joe” Morales, age 74

of Portage, passed away Tuesday, June 5, 2018 at home. He was born in Gary, Indiana on February 15, 1944. Joe proudly served in The United States Army. He was a retired Carpenter, Local 1005, who loved working with his hands and building things even in his free time. He was a member and past commander at the VFW Post 7760 in Portage, the American Legion Post 260 in Portage, and also at Izaak Walton in Portage. Joe is survived by his son, Joseph (Tina) Morales of Portage; daughter, Desiree (Michael) Shane of Portage; grandchildren, Albert Shane, Paul Shane, Jordyn Morales; great grandson, Pheonix Shane; brother, Ken (Sande) Morales of Versailles, KY; and sisters, Sharon Morales of Portage, Joyce Morales of Valparaiso, Linda (Dean) Hill of Peachtree City, GA.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Patricia (nee Sanders) Morales; parents, Fortunato and Margaret Morales; brother, David Morales; nephew, Marc Morales; and mother in law, Catherine Kavadas.

A Celebration of Life for Joe will take place Saturday, July 7, 2018 from 12:00pm-4:00 pm at the Hobart Moose Lodge, 143 S Hobart Rd, Hobart, IN 46342 with an American Legion Service at 2:00pm. Cremation has been entrusted to Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel. For more information, please call 219-762-3013. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.

James Grant Busch, age 63

of Lake Station passed away unexpectedly in Advocate Christ Hospital on Sunday February 25, 2018. James was born January 8, 1955 in Gary, Indiana to the late Grant K. and Dorothy E. (Funke) Busch. James was a Christian that loved his Lord. He graduated from Edison High School, IUN and the Indiana Police Academy. He was the owner and manager of Busch Construction and Protree, Inc. James was the Lake Station Police Commissioner. He was a member of Glen Park Lodge #532, F&AM; He held the honor of the Pilgrim Degree with the Loyal Order of Moose Lodge #783 in Hobart; The Izaak Walton League in Portage and was a member of the Sons of the American Legion Post #502 in South Haven.

James is survived by his loving wife Jackie Busch; stepson Aaron Morse of Orlando, Florida; his sister, Deb Shurr of Hobart; two nephews, Daniel Shurr and Tim (Stacey) Shurr; one niece and his Goddaughter, Tina (Mike) Clindaniel; nine great nieces and nephews; one great-great nephew and his beloved cat Timber.

James was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be 10:00 am Saturday March 3, 2018 at Rees Funeral home, Olson Chapel 5341 Central Avenue Portage, Indiana 46368 with Pastor Bill Taylor officiating. Burial will follow in McCool Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm with a 6:00 pm Moose Memorial Service and a 7:00 pm Masonic Memorial Service at the Funeral Home.

Memorial donations ae preferred to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Lawrence J. Mockaitis “Mo”, age 76

of Lake Station passed away Sunday September 11, 2016 at the Indiana Soldiers Home following a long illness. He was born May 5, 1940 in Gary, Indiana to the late Frank and Sophie (Radzwill) Mockaitis, Sr. He retired from Bethlehem Steel (Arcelor-Mittal) with forty years of service. Mo was a US Army Veteran and member of American Legion Post #100 in Lake Station. He was also a member of the Izaak Walton League and loved the outdoors.

Mo is survived by his loving wife Brenda; one son Michael Nicholson of North Judson; one daughter Wendy Nicholson of Lake Station; a brother Donald (Gloria) Mockaitis of Valparaiso; a sister-in-law Irene Mockaitis; eight grandchildren Kayla, Jessie, Emily, Samantha, Hunter, Zachary, Sabrina and Chuck; several nieces, nephews and dear friends.

Lawrence is preceded in death by his parents, one brother Frank Mockaitis, Jr., and one grandson Bernard M. Nicholson.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 to 11:00 am Thursday September 15, 2016 at Rees Funeral home, Olson Chapel 5341 Central Avenue, Portage, IN 46368. Funeral services will be at 11:00 am with Deacon Dennis Guernsey officiating. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery.