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Dykes Funeral Home, 2305 Campbell Street, Valparaiso, IN (2026)

04/08/2026

Barbara Lee (Nelson) Rumford-Millet
December 15, 1936 - April 3, 2026

Barbara Lee (Nelson) Rumford-Millet, 89, of Valparaiso, IN, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2026, at Northwest Health Hospital in Chesterton, IN.
Despite being born during the Depression, it never stopped Barb from living life to its fullest with optimism and determination. Barb was born December 15, 1936, in Chicago, to the late Leroy and Anne (Anderson) Nelson. She grew up in Chicago and graduated from Toleston High School in Gary, where she met and married her high school sweetheart, Eugene Rumford, who preceded her in death in 1987.
Barb was the heart and soul of the family. She raised and dedicated her life to her four children. Those who knew Barb would remember her to be a joyful, loving, and dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. As a convert to Catholicism, she was an active member of St. Paul Parish since 1971 and accepted everyone and loved them unconditionally. Her upbeat personality made everyone feel welcome.
Eager to learn new skills, Barb embraced a variety of roles. She was a gifted saleswoman and entrepreneur, and she found success in the home party sales world and later became the owner of the Tanning Hut in the early 1980s.
Always ready for an adventure, she joined the team at Costas Bakery, where she worked for 25 years and knew her customers by name. "Barb at the Bakery" was an amazing baker herself and enjoyed trying out new recipes. No picnic, wedding, or baby shower were complete without the famous giant tri-layer brandy snifter mold. She loved baking with her grandkids. Barb had style. It was an extension of her spirit, reflected in her jewelry, her clothing, and the spaces she transformed.
After the passing of her husband, Gene, who she was married to for 30 years, she was fortunate to marry another good man, Nick Millet, at age 60. After 20 years of marriage, he also preceded her in death. Nick took her on many adventures to Florida, where they lived part-time.
Dedicated to serving others, her compassion was felt by anyone who interacted with her. She was in her element as the community social chairman; she took charge and helped friends gather to build a beautiful community. Barb was an active member of Psi Iota Xi.
She is survived by her brother, Charles (Chuck) Nelson; her loving children, Rick (Lynne) Rumford, Robin (Gary) Krueger, Rodney (Terry) Rumford, and Regina Rumford; her grandchildren, Bethany (Stephen) Dwyer, David Rumford, Kyle (Nick) Macri, Jack Krueger, and Krysten Walls; and great-grandchildren, Robert, Charlotte, and Caroline Dwyer and Clara Macri. She was preceded in death by her brother, Leroy Nelson, and sister, Florance Bee.
She is also survived by Nick's daughters, Debbie (Terry) Borolov and Tammy Armstrong; grandchildren, Terry Borolov, Crystal (Justin) Frever, Ashley and Austin Armstrong; great-grandchildren, Terry Xavier and Brody Borolov, Bailey and Brooklyn Frever, Jackson and Lovie Armstrong; and great-great-grandchildren, Luciel and Jarad Borolov.
On Wednesday, April 8, a visitation for Barb will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. at D***s Funeral Home, 2305 N. Campbell, Valparaiso, IN, 46383. On Thursday, April 9, a funeral Mass of Christian Burial will occur at 10 a.m. at St. Paul Catholic Church, 1855 W. Harrison Blvd., Valparaiso, IN, 46383. Burial and reception immediately following Mass at St. Paul.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Best Buddies Texas in memory of Barbara Rumford at www.bestbuddies.org/texas/donate/ in support of her grandson, Jack Krueger, who is a global ambassador for this organization that supports individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Arrangements made by D***s Funeral Home (219) 462-3125.

03/10/2026

Hubert Eugene Hoffman
Jun 6, 1933 - Mar 3, 2026

Valparaiso, IN – Hubert Eugene Hoffman, 92, passed away March 3, 2026. Born June 6, 1933, in Terre Haute, IN, he grew up there and later returned to raise his family before moving to Northwest Indiana in 1985.
Hubert served four years in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War aboard a destroyer. The Navy helped fund his degree from Indiana State University. He served more than 35 years as an auditor with the Indiana State Board of Accounts and was later promoted to Supervisor overseeing audits for three counties.
On October 19, 1963, he married Patricia J. Hoffman. They shared a strong and loving partnership built on mutual respect and a genuine enjoyment of life together. They met when Hubert audited the East Chicago Water Department where Patricia worked. Dressed in all black, she initially thought he was a priest.
A devoted member of St. Paul Catholic Church in Valparaiso, Hubert served on the first pastoral council, was an usher, and was active in the Men's Club as financial treasurer and the Knights of Columbus as Comptroller. He was also a member of the American Legion and delivered Meals on Wheels.
After retiring, Hubert prepared taxes for individuals and volunteered preparing taxes for the Humane Society of Northwest Indiana. During tax season he also assisted residents through a free tax preparation program held at the library.
He enjoyed sports, travel, dinners with friends, and time with family.
He is survived by his wife, Patricia; daughter, Jocelyn Hoffman (Jason Ewing); son, Aaron Hoffman; and grandchildren, Tyler, Ivy, Ella-Patricia and Mia.
A wake will be held Friday, March 13 at 9:00 a.m., followed by Mass at 10:00 a.m. officiated by Rev. Fr. Douglas Mayer, with luncheon following, all at St. Paul Catholic Church, 1855 W. Harrison Blvd., Valparaiso.
Hubert's remains will be placed in the columbarium at St. Paul Catholic Church Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Paul Catholic Church.
Arrangements made by D***s Funeral Home (219) 462-3125

02/05/2026

Brenda Carol Ward Farabaugh

VALPARAISO, IN - Brenda Carol Ward Farabaugh, 74, of Valparaiso, Indiana, passed away at 12:30 a.m. on February 3rd in Crown Point, Indiana.
Brenda grew up in Merrillville and Schererville, Indiana. She graduated from Lake Central High School in 1969. Shortly after high school, she spent a year living in Phoenix, Arizona-an experience she always spoke of fondly and carried with her as a cherished chapter of independence and discovery.
In 1974, Brenda began dating Robin Farabaugh. Two weeks later, they were married on New Year's Eve, beginning a partnership that would span more than 50 years and anchor her life. Together they built a family that became Brenda's greatest source of joy and purpose.
Brenda began her professional life at Bethlehem Steel, working in a secretarial role before stepping away to raise her children. When she returned to the workforce, she briefly worked in the Twin Towers in Merrillville before settling into a bookkeeping position with the Lake County Prosecutor's Office. She spent decades there, known for her reliability and dedication, and retired at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Outside of work, Brenda was a lifelong quilter and crocheter. Her hands were rarely still, and many of her creations became lasting gifts-quiet expressions of love that wrapped family and friends in warmth long after they were made.
Brenda loved the holidays, especially having her son's home with her. Christmas was a particular joy. She was known for her baking, especially her pecan cups and the many cookies she made each year-traditions that filled her home with warmth and will continue to live on in memory.
Above all else, Brenda loved her family. Her sons were the center of her world, and her love extended far beyond them. She cherished her many nieces and nephews, loving them as if they were her own children, and took pride in staying connected to the people she held dear.
Brenda is survived by her husband, Robin Farabaugh, 76, of Valparaiso, Indiana; her sons, Patrick Farabaugh, 48, of Madison, Wisconsin, and his husband, Sedrick Huppert; and Nicholas Farabaugh, 45, of Brownsburg, Indiana, and his wife, Jen Barr Farabaugh. She is also survived by her brothers, Lester (Sonny) Ward Jr., 71, of Keizer, Oregon, and Rick Ward, 61, of Valparaiso, Indiana, and his wife, Kerry Ward; her sister, Sheila Selmon, 57, of Schererville, Indiana; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her father, Lester James Ward Sr. (1932–2001), and her mother, Leatha Fern Jones Ward (1934–2008).
Arrangements made by D***s Funeral Home Inc., (219) 462-3125.

01/22/2026

James Ellsworth
1941-2026

James Robert Ellsworth, 84, of Holland, Michigan, passed away peacefully on January 8, 2026, following a brave battle against cancer.
Jim was born in 1941 in Lafayette, Indiana, son of the late Robert F. and Laura E. (Schuster) Ellsworth. He graduated from Marian University with a degree in Economics, received his MBA from Indiana University, along with continued post-graduate studies at Rutgers University. Jim served in the Indiana National Guard as a Chaplain's Assistant. Starting as a teenager collecting coins from bank branches, Jim had an exceptional life-long career as a community banker. He was especially proud of the years spent with Centier Bank, helping grow the business over his decades-long tenure. He served as a Council member on the Valparaiso City Council, and was honored with the Sagamore of the Wabash award in 1998 for his extraordinary contributions to the State of Indiana by late Governor Frank O'Bannon.
His entire life, Jim was a craftsman and maker, an architect of tree forts and doll houses, an artisan of furniture and stained- glass windows, and eventually becoming an award-winning wood turner. Upon retirement, Jim and his dearly loved late wife Diana Ellsworth captained their boat for six months on The Great Loop - the continuous waterway that includes part of the Atlantic, Gulf Intracoastal Waterways, the Great Lakes, Canadian Heritage Canals, and the inland rivers of the Midwest. He was a dedicated volunteer, and a loud and proud Democrat. He loved playing bridge with his dear partner Mary Essling, researching strategies and traveling to tournaments. His biggest amusement was watching his grandchildren grow up, traveling around the country for their birthdays and graduations.
Loving father to Scott (Melissa) Ellsworth, Laura Ellsworth (Josh Chicoine), and Chris (Kristyn) Ellsworth; brother to Joyce (Steve) Brooke, David (Becky) Ellsworth, Debra (Pat) Hrdy, and Susan (Marvin) Reeves (deceased); cherished grandfather to Max, Zoe, Nina, Sylvie, Watson, Avery and Cora; and beloved partner to Mary Essling.
A funeral service at St. Paul Catholic Church, 1855 W. Harrison Blvd., Valparaiso, IN will be held on Thursday, January 22, at 10:00 AM CST, with visitation at 9:00 AM. All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of James Ellsworth can be made to Habitat for Humanity.
Arrangements made by D***s Funeral Home, Inc., Valparaiso IN, 219-462-3125.

01/22/2026

Dana Duane Downing
Apr 2, 1931 - Jan 8, 2026

Dana Duane Downing, 94, longtime resident of Valparaiso, Indiana. Passed away peacefully on January 8, 2026 in Brooklyn, Ohio. He was born on April 2, 1931, to Dana Dymond and Lelah Melvin Downing in Willoughby, Ohio.
Downing grew up in the Fulton, NY area, where he was a member of the Fulton High School class of 1948. He received his associate degree in food science/technology from Morrisville (NY) College. He then went into the Army Security Agency of the U.S Military. Upon discharge he enrolled in the University of Georgia's food science and technology program. Downing received his B.S. degree from UGA in 1957 and his M.S. in Food Technology in 1958. He also did post graduate work at the Ohio State University as well as attended several courses sponsored by the American Management Association. He married Patricia Lott, Hamlet, NC. On December 21, 1957 in Athens, GA.
During his career, he worked for Clinton Corn Processing Co. a division of Standard Brands, Clinton, IA. Diamond Crystal Salt Col, St. Clair, MI, Keever Starch Co., Columbus, Ohio, ADM, Minneapolis, MN and Anheuser Busch, St. Louis. In 1975 he joined American Maize Products, Whiting, IN and retired in 1996 as a general manager of a new venture product, cyclodextrins.
He was predeceased in death by his twin brother, Donald L. Downing, and an infant son, Drew Duane Downing. Surviving are his beloved wife of 68 years, Patricia; three awesome children, Donna Conway (Jonathan), Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Dana Dymond Downing II (Mary Kelley), Strongsville, Ohio, and Deborah Pettenuzzo, Joliet, Ill.; and 13 loved grandchildren, David, Scott, and Lelah Conway, Christian, Jacob, Noah, and Gabriel Downing, and Jessica, Alexandra, Michaela, Andrew, and Daniel Pettenuzzo, and Mateusz Pianiazek.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to; Pines Village, 3303 Pines Village Circle, Valparaiso, IN 46385, Valparaiso University, Chapel Dr., Valparaiso, IN 46383.
Arrangements made by D***s Funeral Home, (219-462-3125), 2305 Campbell St., Valparaiso, IN 46385.

01/07/2026

Mary Ann Joyce
1969 - 2026

Born on June 1, 1969 in Klamath Falls, Oregon and passed away at 56 years old. Preceded in death by parents Joseph and Charmaine Joyce. Survived by brother Patrick Joyce of Valparaiso and Charmaine McGee of Indianapolis. Loving aunt to John and Jason Sawa. Mary Ann was loved by all who met her. She was always ready and willing with the biggest smile and best hugs. She enjoyed her early years at Self School in Valparaiso. She later became a professional clown with her mother. Also want to recognize Providence Hospice in Merrillville, Indiana for their loving support and kindness in her last few months. We are at peace knowing Mary Ann is in the arms of our heavenly father and has been rejoined with Mom and Dad. Their sweet angel is back together with them for all eternity. I am certain she is smiling her biggest and best smile ever. Viewing on Friday, January 9, 2026 at 11am - 12pm at D***s Funeral Home at 2305 N Campbell Street in Valparaiso. Funeral Service to follow at 12pm at D***s Funeral Home on January 9, 2026. Father Douglas Mayer Officiating. Burial Ridge Lawn Cemetery in Gary, Indiana. Arrangements by D***s Funeral Home. 219-462-3125.

12/29/2025

Martha Galvan
1943-2025

Martha Galvan, age 82 of Valparaiso IN, passed away on December 26, 2025 surrounded by her dear family in the loving care of the VNA Hospice of Northwest Indiana. She was born November 28, 1943 in Venado, San Luis Potosi, Mexico. Martha was the beloved daughter of the late parents, Jose N. and Aurora Galvan-Silva; dearest sister of the late Filiberto (Celina) Galvan, the late Maria Cristina (late Jose D.) Vega, Rosa (late Carlos) Villarreal, Jose A.
(Maria Elena Martinez) Galvan, Margarita Galvan and the late Luis (Florantina) Galvan; adored and unforgettable aunt, survived by her treasured nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. During Martha's professional career, many knew her as a dedicated Hyde Park salon owner, hairdresser and friend. It was her deep Catholic faith and generosity to the less fortunate that she was most known for. Martha was deeply loved by her family and will be missed very much. Visitation for Martha will be held on Friday, January 2, 2026 from 2:00 to 5:00 pm at D***s Funeral Home, 2305 N. Campbell St., Valparaiso IN. A Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 am on Saturday, January 3 at St. Paul Catholic Church, 1855 W. Harrison Blvd.,
Valparaiso IN. Interment, Holy Cross Cemetery, Calumet City IL. Arrangements made by D***s Funeral Home, Inc., Valparaiso IN, 219-462-3125.

12/24/2025

Patrick Thomas Durkin

(2000-2025) - With Profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our son Patrick T. Durkin, age 25, on December 20, 2025.
From the moment he entered this world, Patrick taught those around him the deepest meaning of love, patience and resilience.
After a courageous life journey with Zellweger syndrome, Patrick's presence was a gift that forever changed the hearts of his family and all who knew him.
He was deeply loved and will always be remembered for the light he brought into these lives of so many.
Patrick is survived by his mother, Kathleen Hayes; father, Patrick Durkin; stepmother, Aom Durkin; sisters, Riley Hayes and Emilie Durkin; brother, Daniel Hayes; and grandmothers, Leanor Bandura and Janet Durkin Max. He is also lovingly remembered by many aunts, uncles and cousins who adored him and held him close to their hearts.
A memorial service will be held at D***s Funeral Home, 2305 N. Campbell St., Valparaiso, IN on Saturday, December 27, 2025. Open visitation will be held from 10:00 am to 11:30 am with a prayer service immediately following at 11:30 am. Funeral procession to Graceland Cemetery, Valparaiso IN.
Patrick's spirit will live on in the memories, hearts and lives he touched.
Arrangements made by D***s Funeral Home, Inc., Valparaiso IN, 219-462-3125.

12/15/2025

Janice Rae Reynolds
1949-2025

Janice Rae Reynolds, 76, passed away on Thursday, December 11, 2025, in Valparaiso – a city that she proudly called home her entire life.
Born in 1949 to Ray and Genevieve (Jean) Selman, Janice grew up with a love for family and community. She attended Union Township and St. Paul’s Catholic Elementary School before graduating from Andrean High School in 1967. A year later, she married and soon began her journey as a mother, welcoming a daughter and a son.
Janice was never afraid of hard work. After working in her parents’ restaurant and ice cream trucks, and later at Bethlehem Steel, she built a long and successful career at IIC/CSI in Valparaiso, starting as a key punch operator and retiring as an Administrative Assistant.
Life brought changes, and after her first marriage ended, Janice found the love of her life, Darrell Reynolds. Together, they built a blended family, adding two more daughters and two more sons to her heart.
Janice was the kind of person who made life better for those around her. She was a talented cook who loved to feed the people she cared about. She loved a good card game, never backed down from a Scrabble or Bananagram challenge, and had a laugh that could brighten a room. She loved people-watching, enjoyed a good casino win, and cherished every moment spent with her family. Her greatest happiness came from her “grandbabies,” who were at the center of her heart and the reason for her biggest smiles.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Kenneth Selman. Janice leaves behind her loving husband, Darrell L. Reynolds; children Tina (Darryl) Pruitt, Stacey (Rick) Ehlers, Darrell Jr.(April) Reynolds, Donna (Scott) Groves, Danny (Michele) Reynolds, and Shannon (Jennifer) Combs; 18 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; her sister Ruth (Jack) Potter; sister-in-law Linda Selman, and many dear nieces, nephews and friends.
A Memorial Mass will be held Monday, December 15, at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Valparaiso. Interment at St. Paul’s Cemetery will follow at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St Jude’s Children’s Hospital or Our Lady of Sorrows Parish.

11/26/2025

Doris "Deanie" Janjecic
Mar 11, 1943 - Nov 16, 2025

Valparaiso, IN - Doris Deane Janjecic, 82, passed away on November 16, 2025, in Valparaiso, Indiana. Deanie was born on March 11, 1943, in Gary, Indiana, to Emil and Bessie Bradon. She attended Lew Wallace High School (Class of 1961), graduated from Indiana State University, where she was a member of Sigma Kappa Sorority, and attained a master's degree from Indiana University. Deanie was an English and French high school teacher for many years in the Gary and Portage school systems. She also taught college English courses.
Deanie enjoyed reading, traveling, attending concerts, volunteering, and time with her grand pugs, family, and friends. Deanie traveled to Europe several times and visited many states and national parks. She loved the French language and culture.
Deanie was preceded in death by her parents and husband, George Janjecic. Deanie is survived by her daughter, Dr. Marcy Jance; grand pups, Bugsy and Freddy; sister, Marsha (Jack) Sisson; brother-in-law, James Bagaloff, many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Deanie was a wonderful wife, mother, family member, volunteer, and friend. She will be missed.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at St. Paul Catholic Church, 1855 W. Harrison Blvd, Valparaiso, Indiana. Family and friends may gather beginning at 9 a.m., with a Catholic mass to follow at 10 a.m., Fr. Roque Meraz officiating. Luncheon will be held after services.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Share Foundation (www.sharefoundation.org), or St. Agnes Adult Day Service (www.stagnesvalpo.org). Deanie was strong supporter of both organizations.
Arrangements made by D***s Funeral Home, Inc., Valparaiso, IN, 219-462-3125.

10/15/2025

Rev. Joseph M. Pawlowski

Rev. Joseph M. Pawlowski passed away on Oct. 7, 2025. He was born on Sept. 23, 1947, in Michigan City, Indiana, to the late Joseph L. and Berniece (nee Rathnow) Pawlowski.
Father Joe was ordained on Sept. 30, 1973. He retired from St. Paul Catholic Church, Valparaiso, Indiana, in 2018. He served in five parishes as a deacon, five as assistant, three as pastor, culminating in 20 years at St. Paul Catholic Church. He also served in Diocesan responsibilities as CFO and Vicar General.
Father Joe would like to acknowledge the love and gifts of his late parents, Joe and Berniece; surviving siblings, Sue (Ed), Tom (Kelli) and Jim (Michele); and the many parishioners he served. Thank you, Lord for all the blessings of an amazingly long life.
Visitation will be held on Monday, Oct. 20, 2025, at 2 p.m. with a 2nd Rite of Reception and a 7 p.m. Evening Prayer at St. Paul Catholic Church, 1855 W. Harrison Blvd., Valparaiso, Indiana. A Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Paul Catholic Church with Most Reverend Bishop Robert J. McClory officiating. Interment, St. Stanislaus Cemetery, Michigan City, Indiana, next to his father, Joseph.
In memory of Father Joseph Pawlowski, memorials may be made to his family parish, St. Stanislaus Kostka Church, 109 Ann Street, Michigan City IN 46360, or St. Paul's Capital Campaign at St. Paul Catholic Church, 1855 W. Harrison Blvd., Valparaiso, IN 46385.
Arrangements made by D***s Funeral Home, Inc., Valparaiso, Indiana, 219-462-3125.

09/15/2025

The other night we said goodbye to “Uncle Menny” Mike Karamesines. He would prefer that we continue making the best pizzas around in his name. Making families gather and smile with one another. And spreading positivity through what we do best. His legacy will continue through all of us. Lots of love from the Karamesines family. And thank you always.

A Celebration Of Life will be held October 12th from 1-3pm at the Urschel Pavilion in Downtown Valparaiso

Dykes Funeral Home

04/08/2026

03/10/2026

02/05/2026

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01/07/2026

12/29/2025

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Monday	9am - 4:30pm
Tuesday	9am - 4:30pm
Wednesday	9am - 4:30pm
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