Delbert "Del" Brock Jr., 74, of La Porte, Indiana, passed away on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at Northwest Health-La Porte.

Delbert was born on August 16, 1951, in La Porte, IN, to Delbert and Sally (Hubbard) Brock, Sr.

On June 3, 1974, in La Porte, he married Marilyn Blankenship who survives. Also surviving are his son, Douglas Brock of La Porte; siblings, Dennis Brock of La Porte, Phyllis Bendicks of Valparaiso, Elaine Cox of League City, TX, Debbie Pinkerton of Huntington, IN, and Becky Myers of Waco, TX; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Delbert was a CNC Operator at Screw Machine Products for 43 years. He was a member of the National Rifle Association. Delbert liked motorcycles and cars. After retirement, he enjoyed watching the birds and keeping the chipmunk population under control. He loved spending time with his nephews, playing games with them, and hearing about their antics. Del enjoyed cooking on the grill and going out to eat with his friends and family. He especially liked the many trips he and Marilyn took to Mackinaw Island.

Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at La Porte Assembly of God, 224 E. Boyd St., La Porte, Indiana.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until the time of service on Saturday at the church.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Diabetes Association, 55 E. Monroe St., Suite 3420, Chicago, IL 60603 or to the donor's choice.

Condolences may be shared online at www.cutlercares.com.

Hollie Christine Willis, age 54, passed away peacefully at Northwest Health–La Porte with her loving husband, Stan V. Willis, faithfully by her side.

 

Born on September 19, 1971, in Tampa, Florida, Hollie was the cherished daughter of the late Richard Frasier and Doloris Frasier. She graduated from H.B. Plant High School in Tampa with the Class of 1990 and went on to build a dedicated career as an inspector with Stellar Precision Aerospace Coatings in Largo, Florida, where she was known for her strong work ethic and attention to detail.

 

Sometimes the most extraordinary love stories begin in the simplest of ways. In 2017, an innocent Instagram comment about a snack of spicy pork rinds and Diet Coke introduced Hollie to the man who would become the love of her life, Stan V. Willis. What began as a lighthearted online exchange blossomed into a deep and abiding love. The couple was married in August of 2022 in La Porte, where they built a life filled with laughter, companionship, and unwavering devotion to one another.

 

A Christian woman of the Presbyterian faith, Hollie lived with a grateful heart and found her greatest joy in the people she loved. Above all else, her family was her proudest accomplishment. She adored her four sons and treasured every opportunity to spend time with them, especially the friendly games of basketball they enjoyed whenever they visited. Hollie also found peace and happiness outdoors, tending to her garden and nurturing the flowers she loved so dearly. Her faithful canine companion, "Stinker," brought her countless smiles and was never far from her side.

 

Those left to cherish her memory include her devoted husband of four years, Stan Willis; her loving mother, Doloris Frasier; her beloved sons, Joel Koford, Colin Koford, Chase Resch, and Braeden Reva; and her special aunt, Caroline Neidert (Rick), along with many extended family members and friends whose lives were enriched by her kindness and gentle spirit.

 

Hollie will be remembered for her loving heart, her quiet strength, and the joy she found in life's simple blessings. Though her time on earth was far too short, the love she shared and the memories she created will continue to bloom in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

 

In accordance with Hollie's wishes, all services will be private.

 

Daniel R. Perkins, 59, of La Porte, IN, passed away on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Northwest Health La Porte.

He was born on May 24, 1967, in Valparaiso, IN, to Marvin R. and Jeanne L. (Buhmann) Perkins.

Daniel is survived by his 3 children, Corbin Perkins, Sr. of Michigan City, Cameron Perkins of Michigan City, and Chloe Perkins of Indianapolis; 2 grandchildren, Corbin Perkins, Jr. of La Porte and Addison Perkins of Edon, OH; 5 sisters, Patricia Simpson of La Porte, Bonnie Hunsley of Michigan City, Dianna Perkins of La Porte, Tina Eliyas of Michigan City, and Rayna Perkins of La Porte; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Daniel was a mechanic, who really enjoyed auto restoration and 4-wheeling. He was a faithful fan of the Dallas Cowboys and enjoyed collecting Dallas Cowboy memorabilia.

Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family c/o Corbin Perkins, 2900 Monroe Street, La Porte, IN 46350 or to the donor's choice.

Condolences may be shared online at www.cutlercares.com.

Aaron "Dan" Halle, August 1, 1952, to August 4, 2026.

 

Dan Halle of La Porte, Indiana, entered the spiritual world on August 4, 2026, at Munster Community Hospital, with hospice care. A life-long LaPortean, his final five years clearly showed how family love, humor, determination, pragmatism, good friends, and a package of Twizzlers carried him through to one too many serious health issues.

 

After 74 years of a life filled with a wealth of time with loved ones, so many self-employed business ventures and adventures, world travels, favorite foods, and crass jokes, Dan passed peacefully during one of his favorite pastimes: napping.

 

He is survived by his high school sweetheart and loving wife of 55 years, Barbara (nee Bowman) “the Saint”; his daughters: Arianne (Rahul) Menon of Lafayette, Indiana, and Amy (Brad) Balcerak of Riehen, Switzerland; his five grandchildren: Connor, Elliott, and Maddox Menon, and Laine and Miles Balcerak; his older sisters, Daisy (Ron) Ebert and Patricia (Tuk/Steve/Richard/Dick) Tukos; his nieces and nephews: Melina, Lon, Rachael, Chris, and Sarah; and his wonderful lifetime guy friends (you know who you are). And his feisty cat, Fritz.

 

He is preceded in death by his beloved mother, Daisy Halle, who raised him and whom he cherished and has missed dearly, his father Alden Halle, and several favorite aunts, uncles, and cousins.

 

Friends, family, and business associates are invited to a casual open house on Sunday, August 9, 2026, from 2-4 pm, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, 1117 Indiana Avenue, La Porte, Indiana. There will be no formal memorial service. Instead, we'll spend time casually together telling stories, memories, and celebrating the colorful life of Dan. 

 

The big guy will be greatly missed.

 

If desired, memorial donations may be directed to the La Porte New Church, 812 Indiana Avenue, or La Porte County Habitat for Humanity, 326 W. 10th St, Michigan City.

 

Family and friends are invited to light a virtual candle, share a cherished memory, or leave a message of comfort for Dan's family by visiting esslingfuneralhome.com.

 

Joe Allan Gierke, 58, of La Porte, Indiana, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, August 2, 2026.

 

Born on December 26, 1967, in La Porte to John F.(Jim) and Judy (Rehlander) Gierke, Joe spent his entire life in the community he loved. A proud graduate of New Prairie High School’s Class of 1986, he recently enjoyed reconnecting with lifelong friends at his 40-year class reunion.

 

On April 26, 1997, Joe married Marti Ferrell, and together they raised two daughters, who remained the greatest source of his pride and joy. He dedicated many years of his career to New York Blower and was a proud member of the Teamsters Local #135.

 

Joe lived a life centered on service, generosity, and family. If someone needed help, Joe was there—often before they even had to ask. He believed in giving back and devoted more than 30 years to volunteering with the La Porte County 4-H Sheep Committee. When his daughters were growing up, he could often be found coaching their softball teams, cheering them on, and creating memories they will carry forever. Their mornings often began with Joe’s familiar call of, “It’s time to make the donuts!”—a simple phrase that became a cherished family tradition and one his daughters will forever hear in their hearts.

 

He was the kind of person who would truly give you the shirt off his back, expecting nothing in return.

 

Some of Joe’s happiest memories began in the kitchen alongside his mother. Those moments sparked a lifelong passion for cooking, and he became known for preparing meals completely from scratch. His homemade chicken and noodles, made from his mother’s cherished recipe, became a favorite among family, friends, and countless people he lovingly cooked for over the years. For Joe, sharing a meal was another way of showing love.

 

Joe also loved sharing stories. He had an incredible memory for family history and could spend hours recounting stories that kept generations connected. Whether he was visiting a local restaurant in La Porte, catching up with friends in Rolling Prairie, or offering comfort to someone at a funeral home, Joe never met a stranger. His genuine kindness, easy conversation, and caring heart made people feel like friends within minutes.

 

He also enjoyed collecting just about anything and everything that sparked his interest, but the things he treasured most were the relationships he built throughout his life. Joe leaves behind a legacy of generosity, hard work, laughter, and unwavering loyalty. His absence will be deeply felt by his family, his many friends, and the entire community that was fortunate enough to know him.

 

Joe is lovingly remembered by his mother, Judy Gierke; the mother of his children, Marti Ferrell-Gierke; his daughters, Madison (Colin) Schaible and Aubrey Gierke; his brother, John P. Gierke; his sister, Julie Gierke; his special nephew, Justin Hoke; along with several other nieces and nephews; his dear friend, Mark Condeni; the entire family of Erick and Tracy Keller; along with many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

 

He was preceded in death by his father, John (Jim) F. Gierke.

 

A Celebration of Joe’s Life, hosted by the Gierke family, will be held on Sunday, September 13, 2026, from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. CST, at the Rolling Prairie VFW (4202 N 400 E, Rolling Prairie, IN 46371).

 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to his daughters.

 

Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

 

Cheryl Darlene Yaw, 81, of Michigan City, IN, passed away on Sunday, August 2, 2026, at Trail Creek Place.

She was born on September 13, 1944, in Monon, IN, to Perry and Charlotte (McGuire) Crowe.

Cheryl's first marriage union to Jim Vick gifted them their son, Shawn. Her second marriage was to Gerald Yaw, who preceded her in death. Surviving Cheryl are her granddaughters, especially Jessica whom she had a very special relationship with; many great-grandchildren; sister, Susan (Roy) Runion of Rolling Prairie; as well as many other family members.

She was preceded in death by her husband; mother; son, Shawn Vick; sister, Marsha Hill; and brothers, Perry Crowe and Jerry Crowe.

Cheryl was a devoted mother to Shawn, who passed at the age of 15. He was a light in her life.

She worked as a system analyst for La Porte Hospital, where she started in the 80's in IT services. Later she transferred to patient accounts where she worked for over 30 years, before retirement. Cheryl will be fondly remembered for her wonderful work ethic. She had a gift of making others feel welcomed, heard and valued, which resulted in many lifetime friends that were once just co-workers. Cheryl truly was a wonderful co-worker to be admired.

Cheryl dearly loved her dogs, Precious and Cleo. She enjoyed bowling and participated on several bowling leagues. Cheryl also enjoyed visiting Blue Chip Casino. She loved the color purple and collecting horses and teddy bears. Cheryl was a big fan of Elvis!

Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center with Pastor Jeff Zigler officiating.

A time of visitation will be held from 9 a.m. until the time of service onSaturday at the funeral home. Inurnment will take place at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family c/o Susan Runion, 2900 Monroe St., La Porte, IN 46350.

Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.cutlercares.com.

Barbara Lingus, December 4, 1933 - July 31, 2026.

Barbara Lingus, 92, Michigan City, Indiana, passed away Friday, July 31, 2026, at 12:45 am in Brickyard Healthcare Center, La Porte, IN.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am, Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at Ott/Haverstock Funeral Chapel, 418 Washington St., Michigan City, IN, with  Brother Shaun Gray CSC officiating. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 9:00 am - 11:00 am, Wednesday at the funeral chapel.

She was born December 4, 1933, in Michigan City, IN,  to the late Gabriel and Julia (Pikulik) Vitzer.

Surviving are her two sons, Arthur Lingus of Michigan City, IN, and Vincent Lingus of McPherson, KS; and four  grandchildren.

She was also preceded in death by her daughter, Cynthia Lingus; son,  Ronald Lingus; three sisters, Mary Posagai, Grace Lee and Eileen Shebel; and her brother, Gabriel Vitzer.

Barbara had worked as a billing and accounting clerk as well as a tax preparer and a greeter at Meijer. She was a U.S. Air Force Veteran and enjoyed cooking, baking, crossword puzzles and watching movies.

Contributions may be made to the Michiana Humane Society, 722 Indiana Highway 212, Michigan City, IN 46360 .

To sign a guest book and leave condolences online, visit our website at
www.otthaverstock.com.

 

Lucy West, age 87, of La Porte, Indiana, passed away peacefully at Brickyard Health Care on Thursday, July 30, 2026.

 

Born in Combs, Kentucky, Lucy was the daughter of the late Mack Deaton and Sarah (Herald) Deaton. Proud of her Kentucky roots, she was a true "coal miner's daughter," carrying with her the resilience, humility, and strong work ethic that defined her throughout her life.

 

On August 24, 1957, Lucy married the love of her life, Herman R. West. Together they built a life centered on faithfulness, hard work, and devotion to family until Herman's passing in 2002. Their enduring love and commitment to one another remained an inspiration to those who knew them.

 

Lucy dedicated more than 30 years of her career as a press operator at American Rubber, where she earned the respect of her coworkers through her quiet determination and unwavering work ethic. Though naturally reserved, Lucy's actions spoke volumes. She was dependable, selfless, and never afraid of hard work.

 

Outside of work, Lucy found great joy tending to her garden, where her flowers flourished under her loving care. Much like the beautiful blooms she nurtured, Lucy's greatest legacy was the love she cultivated within her family. She treasured every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and nothing brought her greater happiness than watching her family grow through the generations.

 

Lucy is lovingly survived by her four children, Donna (Wayne) Ellenburg, Diane Kantor (Kevin), Robert West (Lisa), and Roy West (Denise); fourteen grandchildren, Adam Lindsley, Eric Lindsley, Ian Lindsley, Hailey Ellenburg, Karma Ellenburg, Miracle Ellenburg, Kara Kantor, Max Kantor, Andrew West, Justin West, Jessica West, Alec West, Roy West, Jr., and Amber Maksyan; eleven great-grandchildren; her sister-in-law, Emma West (Martin); along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

 

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Herman R. West; her parents, Mack and Sarah Deaton; and her nine siblings, Virginia, Alford, John M., Chester, Shelby Jean, Nancy, Mary, Henry, and Susie.

 

A funeral service to celebrate Lucy's life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, August 7, 2026, at Haverstock Funeral Home, with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will immediately follow at Pine Lake Cemetery.

 

Lucy lived a life defined not by seeking recognition, but by faithfully caring for those she loved. Through her quiet strength, tireless work ethic, gentle spirit, and unwavering devotion to her family, she left an enduring example of grace, perseverance, and unconditional love. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her

 

Alan Johnston, 73, of Michigan City, Indiana, passed away unexpectedly on July 29, 2026.

 

Born June 20, 1953, in Hull, East Yorkshire, England to the late John Johnston and Valerie (McMillan) Johnston.

 

At age 5, the family emigrated to the US when his father took a position with Dr Scholl.  The family settled in Michigan City, Indiana, where Alan spent the rest of his life.

 

Upon graduation from Elston High School in Michigan City, Alan began employment at Arno Tapes. With the closing of Arno, Alan moved on to employment with Bethlehem Steel.  He took a break from the steel mills with a position at the South Shore Railroad, eventually working his way up to train engineer.  He returned to the steel mills where he trained and qualified as a millwright until his retirement.

 

Not only did he have skills as a millwright, but he was a master craftsman.  He built an airplane from scratch in his home workshop.  There are beautiful pieces of furniture in his home built by him, some of which are accented by stained glass of his own making.  His craftsmanship is evident in his beautiful home in the woods.  Alan, Cheri, family and friends built that home from the ground up.  To have that vision and the fortitude, skill and ability to carry out that vision is remarkable unto itself.

 

Alan became a US citizen in 1977 and served his adopted country in the US Army.  As a Warrant Officer Candidate, he learned to fly “Huey” helicopters, one of the highlights of his flying career.  He transferred to the Indiana National Guard where he rose to the rank of first lieutenant and became the executive officer of a local engineering unit. His exceptional service earned him the Indiana Commendation Medal.

 

Along the way, while working full time, serving his country and being a husband and father to an ever-growing family, Alan earned his associate’s degree from Purdue University.

 

He loved riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle and rode every opportunity that weather would allow, even though the weather didn’t always cooperate en route.  He made multiple cross-country trips to Sturgis, Daytona and Rolling Thunder in Washington, D.C. to honor veterans.

 

His love of flying continued after his military service.  After being a part-owner of a Piper aircraft, he was happy to become the owner of a Grumman Tiger aircraft.  His aircraft was recognized wherever he went because of the Tony the Tiger painted on the tail.  He was an excellent pilot.

 

He was extremely proud of his Scottish heritage.  He became a leader in Johnston clan gatherings at highland games throughout the year.  He and his wife, Cheri, were hosts at the Johnston tent at these gatherings.  He cut quite the figure in his Johnston tartan kilt.

 

Alan was a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association, Harley Owners Group, Military Officers Association of America and Clan Johnston/e in America.

 

At some point in his life, Alan found and committed his life to the Lord.  He became a youth group leader, made multiple missionary trips to Haiti, and lived his life as an example of a truly good Christian man.  He was a leader in Bible study groups and prayer groups.  He was just a good man.  His family is consoled knowing that he is face to face with Jesus and those that have gone on before him in heaven right now. 

 

Surviving Alan are his wife, Cheri; children, Jennifa (Brian) Thomas, Matthew Johnston, Elizabeth "Liz" (Eric) Phillips, Aaron Johnston, and Sarah (Vic) Walker; 19 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; and brothers, Ian and Trevor Johnston.

 

Alan was preceded in death by his parents and daughter, Rebekah.

 

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at the La Porte First Church of God with Pastor Rick Jones and Pastor Jeff Zigler officiating. Following the service, there will be a processional to Greenwood Cemetery in Michigan City where burial with Full Military Honors will take place. Motorcyclists are welcome to be a part of that procession.

 

Visitation will be from 11 a.m. until the time of service at the church on Thursday. In honor of Alan, please wear a Hawaiian attire.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the La Porte First Church of God, 2020 E. Lincolnway, La Porte, IN 46350 or to Trans World Radio (TWR), PO Box 8700, Cary, NC  27512.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.cutlercares.com.