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

05/15/2026

John Herbert Angle
Jun 26, 1939 - May 8, 2026

John Herbert Angle, age 86, of Valparaiso IN passed away on May 8, 2026.
He was born in Rockford, IL on June 26, 1939 to the late Omer and Antoinette Angle. Herb graduated from Valparaiso High School in 1957. He was a member of the United States Marines before graduating from Valparaiso University in 1962. Herb worked at Pactiv in Wanatah for 33 years before retiring. He volunteered at Meals on Wheels and Porter Memorial Hospital.
Herb was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and brother who will be missed.
On June 10, 1961, he married Laurel Clover who survives along with their four children, Lori (David) Bales, Robert (Nancy) Angle, Jolene Nolan and Jennifer (Royal) Church; grandchildren, Sheena (Shawn) Ewing, Alex (Rose) Bales, Jason (Jess) Bales, Brittany and Ashleigh Reustle, Haley and Brianna Nolan, Rachel Prescott and Amber Church; great-grandchildren, Bella and Rogue Ewing and Jovi Bales; sister, Karen Sims; and brother, Edgar Angle. He was preceded in death by his brother, Richard Angle. Special thanks to the Life Care Center of Valparaiso and Dunes Hospice.
A private family burial will be held. In lieu of flowers please consider donations to Dunes Hospice at Duneshospicellc.com/donate
Arrangements made by D***s Funeral Home (219)462-3125.

05/06/2026

Larry Lee Estelle
Jul 7, 1937 - May 1, 2026

Larry Lee Estelle was born on July 7, 1937, in New Castle, Indiana, to Lloyd and Helen Estelle, née Evans. He passed away peacefully on May 1, 2026, leaving behind a loving family and a lifetime of memories.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Helen Estelle, and his brother, Phillip Estelle.
He was the husband of Mary Jane Estelle, née Catt. Together, they built a family rooted in love. He was a proud father to Terry Larr and her husband, Joey; Mike Estelle and his wife, Connie; and Mark Estelle and his wife, Amanda.
Larry was also a cherished grandfather to Ian Larr; Andy Larr and his wife, Stephanie; Dylan Beck; Trevor Estelle and his wife, Jessica; and Abby Estelle. He was a loving great-grandfather to Sophia Cobert, Indy Larr, and Eli Estelle.
His family was one of the great joys of his life, and his influence will continue to live on through the generations who loved him.
Those that knew Larry will remember his quick wit, sarcasm, and dad jokes. He had a great love of music and enjoyed playing the piano. His life was a gift, and his legacy will continue in the hearts of those that loved him.
A Private ceremony will be held at a future date.
Arrangements made by D***s Funeral Home, Inc., Valparaiso IN, (219) 462-3125

05/05/2026

Richard H. McGill
Mar 2, 1940 - Apr 30, 2026

Valparaiso, IN - Richard "Dick" H. McGill passed away on Thursday, April 30, 2026, surrounded by his three daughters. Born on March 2, 1940, in Valparaiso, Indiana, to the late Mathew and Marguerite McGill, graduated from Valparaiso High School in 1958 and had a successful career in painting and wallpapering. Dick was a life-long Cubs fan, car enthusiast, life-long blood donor, loved attending all types of sporting events and Life Member of B.P.O. Elks #500 in Valparaiso, IN. He liked to ride his bike all around town until he was close to 80 years old. Dick most loved helping his friends and neighbors and spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Survived by daughters, Sandi (Todd) Martin, Julie (Willard) Rose, and Shelley (Rick) Stewart; grandchildren, Katelyn (Joshua) Russell of Valparaiso, IN, Madison (Matthew) Massom of Michigan, Courtney (Grant) Wild of Valparaiso, IN, Rachel (Matthew) Shan of Michigan, Nathan Rose of Michigan, and Colby Johnson of Kouts, IN; great-grandchildren, Avery and Owen Russell, Beckett, Griffin and baby boy (June '26) Massom, Monroe Wild; brother, Robert (Alicia) McGill of Valparaiso, IN; sister, Barbara Prescott of Arizona; several nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by parents; sister and brother-in-law, Patricia and Charles Durand of Wisconsin; and brother and sister-in-law, James and Adrienne McGill of Florida.
Friends may call on Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 9 am to 11 am at the D***s Funeral Home, 2305 N. Campbell St., Valparaiso, Indiana. A funeral service will immediately follow at 11 am with Mark Russell officiating. Entombment, Graceland Cemetery, Valparaiso, Indiana.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Dunes Hospice. His family wishes to thank the employees of Avalon Springs and Dunes Hospice for their comfort and care during his last days.

04/27/2026

Lori Ann Gathmann
Apr 29, 1955 - Apr 22, 2026

Lori Ann Gathmann, 71, passed away early morning Wednesday, April 22, 2026. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, and will be deeply missed.
Lori was born April 29, 1955 in Valparaiso and lived in her beloved hometown her entire life. She met and married her high school sweetheart and worked as an elementary art teacher for forty years. She started her career in Boone Grove and Kouts then taught in Valpo at Thomas Jefferson, Hayes-Leonard, and Cooks Corners. Lori treasured time with her grandchildren and children and faithfully served her extended family. She regularly attended Liberty Bible Church and grew up attending Heritage Lutheran Church. Lori enjoyed several creative pursuits like cooking, gardening, sewing, and painting. She pursued quality time with many dear friends, including weekly walks and playing cards.
Lori is survived by husband, Robert Gathmann; son, Mark Gathmann; daughter, Jenna Bauman-Crane; brothers, Thomas Gesse and Kurt Gesse; and three grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Leslie and Joan Gesse and brother, Michael Gesse.
A service to remember Lori's life will be Tuesday, April 28th, at D***s Funeral Home in Valparaiso. Viewing will be 9 to 11 a.m. followed by a service officiated by Pastor Joe Ostafinski at 11 a.m.
Arrangements made by D***s Funeral Home (219) 462-3125.

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.

Dykes Funeral Home

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