John Douglas Haws, 52, of Portage, Indiana, passed away Sunday, March 2, 2025.

John was born on August 9, 1972, in Merrillville, Indiana to the late Thomas Haws and Renie (Jones) Ornelas of Portage, Indiana.

John was a service technician with Indiana American Water Company. He had served his country in the United States Air Force for four years. 

John’s affinity for music infiltrated every aspect of his life. He enjoyed jamming out with his best friends and playing music with his children, where his musical appreciation deeply rooted and instilled that same passion into their lives.

John played football and baseball in high school. His passion for sports translated to his children's athletics, of which he was very involved and always encouraging.

John is preceded in death by his wife, Christy (Short) Haws on February 21, 2019, and by his father, Thomas Haws.

Surviving are his children, Brier (Seth) Haws of Ellettsville, Indiana, Koleton (Taylor) Haws of Chesterton, Indiana, Marissa (Drew) Haws of New Carlisle, Indiana, Evan Haws of La Porte, Indiana, Mya Ann Haws of La Porte, Indiana, & Autumn Haws of La Porte, Indiana; grandchildren, Piper, Jaxon, Caroline, & Clarence; his brother, Jerry (Cheryl) Gilles of Portage, Indiana; a brother-in-law, Tim (Denise) Short of La Porte, Indiana; and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 2 PM “EST” Sunday, March 9, 2025, at the New Carlisle Wesleyan Church, 32645 Early Road, New Carlisle, Indiana 46552. Reverend Donald Bayne will officiate.

Cremation has taken place with Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel in La Porte, Indiana.

Memorial contributions may be made to the New Carlisle Wesleyan Church.

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