James D. Napiwocki, 75, of La Porte, Indiana, passed away Tuesday, October 25, 2022 at his home.

 

He was born in East Chicago, IN, the son of Adam and Isabel Napiwocki.

 

James graduated from Washington High School in East Chicago and moved to the La Porte area in 1965. After he worked at Kroger and American Home Foods, James began his career as a custodian with New Prairie Schools, retiring after 25 years. On February 26, 1972, in Michigan City, he married Victoria Tuley, who preceded him in death on October 10, 2019. James was a devout member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, La Porte and the Independent Cat Society in Westville, where he adopted several cats, including Phoebe, Lila, Priscilla and Katie.  He loved being outdoors, gardening, and playing with his dog Charlie. He enjoyed dabbling in photography and had his own darkroom. James was a true patriot and avid Trump supporter, collecting quite a substantial amount of Trump memorabilia. He also was a stamp enthusiast, with a large collection of old and unusual postage stamps. For his 25th wedding anniversary, he and Victoria traveled to and fell in love with Hawaii, where they renewed their vows, and he also enjoyed Niagara Falls and The Straits of Mackinaw.  His greatest joy, though, was his family, especially his grandchildren.

 

Along with his wife, James was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Raymond Adam Napiwocki.

 

He is survived by two sons, Timothy James Napiwocki of South Bend, Gregory Joel (Michelle) Napiwocki of La Porte, IN; daughter, Melissa (Larry) Whitaker of La Porte; sister Deanna (John) Kronland of Chesterton, IN; brother-in-law Christopher Guy Tuley of La Porte; five grandchildren, Larissa Whitaker, Nicholas Whitaker, Caiden Ivanovic, Luci Petri and Elsie Napiwocki.

 

Arrangements are being entrusted to Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 602 Maple Ave., La Porte, IN where the family will receive friends on Friday, October 28, 2022, from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.   A Memorial Service will follow the visitation at 1:00.  His cremated remains will be laid to rest at Oak Grove Cemetery with his wife.

 

Memorial contributions may be made in James' honor to the Independent Cat Society, 4061 S. County Line Rd, Westville, IN 46391.

 

Online condolences may be made at www.haverstockfuneralhome.com.