David E. Rehlander, 69, of La Porte, Indiana, affectionately known to his friends as “Chief”, passed away Monday, January 22nd, 2024, after a battle with cancer. He was born on May 7th, 1954, in La Porte to the late Eugene and Joan (Brenda) Rehlander. 

 

Chief retired from the South Shore Railroad as a Fiber Optic Engineer. He was a lifelong member of Holy Family Parish in La Porte. 

 

Chief was blessed with daughters, Mary (Scott) Alfano of Brookston, Indiana, and Jordan (Gray) Gordon of Slidell, Louisiana; grandchildren, Cohen and Carsyn Alfano; his former wife, Tammy Rehlander of La Porte; and siblings, Sue (Rob) Spicer of McCordsville, Indiana, Cindi (Tom) Satoski of La Porte, Mike (Mary) Rehlander of Bloomington, Indiana, and Luke (Vickie) Rehlander of La Porte. 

 

The family would like to thank Dunes Hospice, especially Nurse Taylor and Chief’s good friend Jeff for all the care they provided. 

 

Visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon on Saturday, January 27th, 2024, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, 1117 Indiana Avenue, La Porte, Indiana. A memorial service will begin at 12 noon following the visitation in the funeral home. 

 

Memorial contributions may be made to Dunes Hospice, 4711 Evans Avenue, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383. 

 

To light a virtual candle, share a story of Chief’s life, or leave a message of comfort for his family, please visit www.EsslingFuneralHome.com.