Amy Diann Johnson, age 47, of La Porte, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by her loving family, on Thursday, May 7, 2026.

Born on September 27, 1978, to Mitchell and Evelyn (Dyer) Johnson, Amy was a bright and beautiful soul whose presence brought warmth, laughter, and encouragement to all who knew her. A 1996 graduate of La Porte High School, Amy dedicated much of her professional life to caring for others as a medical assistant at Franciscan Health in La Porte. She deeply loved her work and found great joy in helping people. Her coworkers adored her for her compassion, intelligence, quick wit, and the lighthearted spirit she carried into every room.

Amy possessed a radiant personality that could never be forgotten. She was charismatic, joyful, and full of life — often found singing and dancing alongside her sister and church family. Her smile was contagious, her laughter uplifting, and her kindness genuine. To know Amy was to feel welcomed, encouraged, and loved. She was inspirational not only for her strength and beauty, but also for the grace and humility with which she lived her life.

A woman of deep faith, Amy loved her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, with her whole heart. She was a devoted and active member of Crossroads Church, where she faithfully sang with the worship team. Her church was a central part of her life and family. Amy was bold in her convictions and never afraid to stand up for what she believed was right, yet she always did so with gentleness, compassion, and consideration for the feelings of others. She never judged people; instead, she loved them where they were and pointed them toward hope and kindness.

Above all else, Amy adored her family. She cherished every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, siblings, nieces, and nephews. Her grandchildren brought immeasurable joy to her life, and she treasured being their grandmother. Amy was also incredibly thoughtful and creative, especially when it came to gift-giving. She delighted in finding the perfect gift for each person she loved, carefully choosing meaningful expressions of her love and thoughtfulness.

Left to cherish her memory are her mother, Evelyn Crocker (Morgan); her father, Mitchell Johnson (Peggy); her son, Bishop Brown (Tequila Corona); her sisters, Gina Johnson (Michael) and Julie Garza (Noe); her brother, Paul Johnson (Lacey); her beloved grandchildren, Elias, Mateo, and Ava Brown; and the many nieces and nephews she loved as her own children: Ariel, Jada, Gracie, Kahlia, Mia, Josiah, Maddie, Makenna, Ziley, Nahla, and Caden.

A visitation and celebration of Amy’s life will be held on Monday, May 11, 2026, from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Haverstock Funeral Home. Funeral services and burial will be private.

Amy’s shining spirit, unwavering faith, and boundless love for others will forever remain in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

Joyce Ann Weik
March 12, 1940 - May 7, 2026

Joyce Ann Wright Garretson Weik, 86, of Michigan City, Indiana left her earthly body to be at home with the Lord on May 7, 2026 surrounded by loved ones following a long life spent spreading sunshine and joy to
everyone she encountered.

She was born on March 12, 1940 in Andrews, Indiana to Howard and Vonda Wright. She graduated from Andrews High School, and earned both an undergrad and master’s degree in Education from Indiana University, spending 30 years teaching English at Riley High School in South Bend where she also spearheaded a successful Quiz Bowl team.

She first married Michael Garretson in 1959, and they raised three children while living in South Bend, Indiana, and later married Dale Weik in 1995, making their home in Shoreland Hills in Michigan City, Indiana.

Joyce enjoyed a full life of international travel to various locations in North and Central America and Europe with a special fondness for cruises, was a bowling enthusiast participating in several leagues over the years, and took joy in the simple things - coffee, smiling, a brisk walk, a good book, a lively chat, jigsaw puzzles, mashed potatoes and gravy, maintaining her home garden, and walking along the Lake Michigan shore collecting treasured beach glass. She loved the Lord and could often be found reading a daily devotional in the sunshine in her front window. She was also an avid Cubs fan, one time even skipping out on teaching duties to watch a playoff game in a local pub after the cable went out at her home, with the risk of being discovered by administration not enough to keep her away!

With grace and patience, she also fought tonsil cancer and was a survivor in remission for 11 years.

In retirement she and Dale enjoyed additional travel including frequent visits to their condos in Beaver Island, Michigan and Largo, Florida. She loved spending time with her myriad grandchildren and great grandchildren who she was blessed to see as often as possible.

Joyce is survived by her husband Dale, brother Kenny (Connie) Wright of Huntington, Indiana, sister Helen (Jim) Dillon of Camarillo, California, son Greg Garretson of Kokomo, Indiana, daughter Kristy Reimschisel of New Haven, Indiana, daughter Teri (David) Balentine of Middlebury, Indiana; seven grandchildren, Alan (Amy) Garretson, David Balentine Jr., Courtney (Wesley) Balentine, Mackenzie Balentine, Trent (Samantha) Balentine, Riley (Tara) Reimschisel, and Ryan (Lydia) Reimschisel; twelve great- randchildren, Blake, Camri, Alexis, Landon, Gavin, Clay, Madelynn, Carson, Camden, Evelynn, Emmett and Edison; plus bonus step-children and -grandchildren Amy Weik, and Beth (Mike) Grunow and Teddy, Ben and Will; beloved caretaker Maggie Chikonde, and many cherished lifelong friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Ronnie Wright, son-in-law Bill Reimschisel, first husband Michael Garretson, and daughter-in-law Marjorie Garretson.

The family will host private services at a later date. Ott/Haverstock Funeral Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

Donations may be made in honor of Joyce Weik to the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, 6026 Kalamazoo Ave SE #221, Kentwood, Michigan 49508 or at phoenix-society.org.

To sign a guest book and leave condolences online visit
www.otthaverstock.com.

Michael T.  Baunach
November 25, 1936 - May 6, 2026

Michael T.  Baunach , 89, Michigan City, Indiana, passed away surrounded by his loved ones on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at 10:10 am in his home .

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 am, Wednesday, May 13, 2026 at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 1010 Moore Road, Long Beach, IN with Rev. William O'Toole officiating. Burial will follow in St. Stanislaus Cemetery, Michigan City, Indiana. Visitation will be from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm, Tuesday at the Ott/Haverstock Funeral Chapel, 418 Washington St., Michigan City, IN and from 10:30 am - 11:00 am Wednesday at the church.

He was born November 25, 1936 in Michigan City, IN to the late Leo and Cecilia (Timm) Baunach . On May 8, 1971 in Michigan City, IN he married Linda Ritchie Banauch who preceded him on September 30, 2010.

Surviving are his son, Douglas  Baunach of Michigan City, IN; granddaughter, Alexandria Ryan Baunach of Michigan City, IN; sister, Barbara Bowman of Algonquin, IL; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was also preceded in death by his son, Ryan  Baunach; and two sisters, Dorothy  Baunach, and Sister Lois Ann Baunach.

Michael was a Limousine Driver at Blue Chip Casino and a Veteran of the U.S. Air Force as an air traffic controller. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, gun collecting, driving his red truck, walks on the beach, Christmas tree shopping, loved road trips, and going to Indiana beach.  He was very loved by his family.

Contributions may be made to the family of Michael T. Baunach.

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

Carl Michael Jordan, 70, of LaPorte, IN passed away Tuesday May 5, 2026 in his home surrounded by his things and with his wife by his side.

He was born on July 12, 1955 in Royalton, Kentucky to the late Henry C. Jordan & Roma Lou (Patrick) Jordan.

Carl, or Michael as he was affectionately called by his family, had a wild heart, and a free, adventurous spirit. He loved his family, his friends, God, and all things outdoors (hunting, fishing, camping, and Indian rendezvous with his brother, Timmy). He also loved horror movies and had been collecting masks and memorabilia, which he was quite proud of and would tell everyone about. Michael had a huge heart and loved unconditionally. If you were lucky enough to know him and be loved by him, you knew you always had a fierce fighter in your corner. He was a storyteller, often telling stories from his life and the wild or crazy things he and his brothers would get up to or adventures with Steven as he was growing up. Michael could tell you a joke, a wild crazy story, or pull you into conversations about history or the Bible, and have you hanging on every word. He was very creative: from drawing and painting (an attribute he proudly shared with his grandson), to making wooden chairs, and fixing statues for the yard. He loved working in his yard and slowly turning it into his own little oasis. Michael was also an animal lover, happily reuniting with his furry best friends Newt, Tigger, Jack, and Oliver when he crossed those heavenly shores to meet Jesus. He retired after 43 years of service with the former Roll Coater Manufacturing in La Porte.

Michael is survived by his wife of 43 years, Pamela (Snyder) Jordan; his son, Steven (Jessica) Jordan; his grandson, Cohen; sisters, Henrietta Bradley of La Porte and Sondra D. (Bobby) Rowe of Rolling Prairie; and brothers, Timothy W. (Louise) Jordan of Union Mills and Gary E. (Debbie) Jordan of Hobart; a brother-in-law, Tommy Bradley of Rolling Prairie; a sister-in-law, Vicki Jordan of La Porte; along with several other friends and family, including several nieces and nephews on he and Pamela's sides. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Larry (Shorty) Jordan, and sister, Marsha L. (Tiny) Elkins.

Michael was an unforgettable man, who will always be remembered for his crazy stories, unconditional love, and general love for life and all it entailed. He is, and will always be, missed by those who loved him.

Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, 1117 Indiana Avenue, La Porte, Indiana followed by Words of Remembrance from family and friends at 1 p.m. Burial will take place at Pine Lake Cemetery immediately following.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.

To light a virtual candle, share a cherished memory, or leave a message of comfort for the family, please visit esslingfuneralhome.com.

Oh God, our help in ages past, our hope for things to come, our shelter from the stormy blast, and our eternal home.

Daniel Edwin Lewis, Jr June 13, 1935-August 27, 2025

Dan’s favorite poet Dylan Thomas wrote: “Do not go gentle into that good night, …rage, rage against the dying of the light.” If you’re not familiar with this quote, it means “to confront the end of life with strength and defiance, rather than resignation.” Which feels very appropriate for Dan.

Dan died after a long battle with dementia at The Fraser, which is the skilled nursing facility at The Seabrook on Hilton Head, where he was compassionately cared for this past month. He is survived by his forever love, wife Linda, his daughter Karen, his two granddaughters, Evie and Sophie, both of whom were the absolute light of his life, and his loving sister Nancy. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dan and Annette Lewis, and his son Greg.

Dan married Linda Brainard Lewis on June 25, 1960, and they recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary together. Dan was also celebrated for his 90th birthday in June of 2025 with many of his family in attendance in South Carolina.

When daughter Karen had to write her college entrance essay, the writing prompt was to describe someone who was a Renaissance Man (or Woman), which Dan most definitely was. He held a deep intellectual curiosity, was well-versed in a variety of subjects, had innate creativity, and possessed a profound love of music.

Dan attended DePauw University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree, and The University of Michigan, where he earned his Juris Doctor degree. If the Wolverines came up in conversation, he immediately launched into the fight song – “Hail to the victors valiant, hail to the conquering heroes, hail, hail to Michigan…” In 1961 he joined his father in the law firm of Newby, Lewis, Kaminski & Jones in La Porte, Indiana. While his law practice focused on many things over the years, his specialty was estate planning, and it was not uncommon for the family to discuss living wills and trusts and other legal subjects over dinner.

He served his community well by being on countless boards, as a member, leader, and mentor, while providing legal advice, both paid and pro-bono. He was a founder of the Unity Foundation of La Porte County, a community foundation created by and for the residents of La Porte County to provide grants, scholarships, and other funds to support local residents and groups.

The church was very important to Dan. He was a man of abiding faith and believed most definitely in the Holy Trinity. He taught both adult and teen Sunday school at The Presbyterian Church of La Porte, served as a Deacon, and Elder, and sang tenor in the choir. Singing was just part of his love of music—we were a musical family, and it was incorporated in all aspects of our lives, but he FELT the music, deeply. Part of that included multiple trips to Europe with a singing group called Sounds of Hope, traveling to seven countries, staying with host families, and singing in churches in small towns.

When we say that Dan was “into gardening,” that’s a fairly simplistic description. It was his passion. He had over three acres of land, and it was ALL landscaped beautifully. Most mornings before going off to work he would go out to garden. Gardens had themes: one was a “tapestry hedge” created by planting different varieties of evergreens, which wove together as they grew. Another garden was planted with boxwoods and flowers, designed to represent the stained-glass windows at Chartres Cathedral in France. There were “flying buttresses” sculpted out of yews that hid statues of children with musical instruments meant to be a secret garden for his granddaughters. He created a Japanese garden complete with pagoda and spiritual walking path. His gardens were written up in an issue of Chicagoland Gardening Magazine.

Dan discovered cooking late in life, and had an amazing knack for it, enjoying creating chaos in the kitchen for large groups when entertaining, as well as just for the family. Some of it was by recipe, some by taste – he once made a butternut squash soup that was the best thing one had ever tasted, but he couldn’t remember how he doctored it up and was never able to replicate it! We had a tradition called Thanksgiving Two, where many of our out-of-town guests returned to our house on the Friday after Thanksgiving for a dinner he prepared, usually leg of lamb. We faithfully cleaned up after him, because, well, it was really, really good.

In the past few years, after his dementia began, “I await further instructions” was his catch phrase, knowing that Linda would keep him in line and let him know what he needed to do.

He is now awaiting instructions from his heavenly Father, who will certainly call on him to minister to others, sing with joy, create beauty, and feed the masses in heaven.

A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 6, 2026, followed by burial in the Columbarium at The La Porte Presbyterian Church, 307 Kingsbury Avenue, La Porte, Indiana.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Frank L.Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel in La Porte.

Should friends desire, gifts may be made in Dan’s memory to the Unity Foundation’s Carillon Fund of The Presbyterian Church of La Porte. https://uflc.net/funds/carillon-fund-of-the-presbyterian-church-of-la-porte/

To light a virtual candle, share a cherished memory, or leave a message of comfort for Jim’s family, please visit esslingfuneralhome.com.

Charlotte Francis Ott, 92, of La Porte, IN, passed away on Monday, May 4, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her family.

Charlotte was born on August 14, 1933, in La Porte, IN, to Charles and Francis (Hatfield) McLean.

On September 13, 1952, in La Porte, IN, she married Richard Ott who survives. Also surviving are her 3 children, David (Becky) Ott, Bradley (Kirsten) Ott, and Cindy (Lynn) Cains; 5 grandchildren, Alexis, Hannah, and Logan Ott, Tara (Billy) Hardin, and Ryan (Brittany) Cains; 3 great-grandchildren, Ava and Chase Harden and Ivy Cains; as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Robert McLean; and sister-in-law, Doris McLean.

Charlotte was a gifted artist, who enjoyed painting and scrapbooking. She was an excellent cook and baker, making fond memories with her family both through meals and gatherings. Charlotte also enjoyed bird watching.

Charlotte and Richard enjoyed 73 years of marriage. She will be fondly remembered for her lovely blue eyes, kind heart, gentle love, and the beautiful artwork left for her family to enjoy. Charlotte's family was truly blessed by her.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 3 p.m. on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center.

A time of visitation will be held from 1 p.m. until the time of the service on Friday at the funeral home. Cremation will take place following the service, with inurnment at Pine Lake Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to the donor's choice.

Dorothy Buchanan, age 104, of Michigan City, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 1, 2026. She was born on November 16, 1921, in Michigan City, Indiana, to the late John and Julia (Forrester) Michaels.

On July 31,1943, she married Owen Buchanan at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Michigan City. They shared 57 wonderful years together before Owen preceded her in death on August 30, 2000.

Dorothy continued to live in the home that she and Owen built until shortly before her 103rd birthday. She was very proud of her independence, tending to her beautiful garden and maintaining the property well past her 100 th year. Dorothy centered her life around her home and her family, showing unwavering love for those closest to her.

She is lovingly remembered by her immediate family: her beloved son, Steven Buchanan and his wife Margaret of Rolling Prairie, and her cherished grandson Alexander Buchanan and his wife Rebecca Frye of La Porte. They will treasure the memories of Sunday dinners around her kitchen table and all the love and stories that she shared with them.

She is also survived by her sisters, Jane Noll and Ramona Barenie, both of Michigan City, Amber Vojak-Spencer of La Belle, Florida, and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her siblings Marie Lain, Emil Michaels, John Michaels Jr., June Raska, and Alice Spychalski.

A time of visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, 1117 Indiana Avenue, La Porte, Indiana. Burial will follow at Door Village Cemetery.

The family wishes to share their heartfelt gratitude to Dunes Hospice for all their support for Dorothy through the final chapter of her life.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Those wishing to light a virtual candle, share a memory, or leave a message of comfort for the family are invited to visit esslingfuneralhome.com.

Rita Jo Layton, April 17th, 1947 – April 29th, 2026.

With deep love and gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we remember Rita Jo Layton, who went to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at her home surrounded by loved ones.

Rita lived a life defined by love, presence, and an unwavering belief in the goodness of others. A cherished wife, devoted mother, beloved sister, proud grandmother, and treasured aunt and friend, she had a rare gift: she made people feel truly seen and heard. In her presence, you mattered.

She was the one behind the camera at every gathering – capturing laughter, quiet moments, and the connections that made life meaningful. Whether it was a family celebration, a spontaneous outing, a Harmony Girl gathering, or a motorcycle adventure, she preserved the memories that will continue to tell her story for generations. She never missed a sunrise or a sunset if she could help it, finding beauty in each day and reminding those around her to do the same.

Above all, Rita showed up for her family, for her friends, for anyone who needed her. Through life’s joys and challenges, she was steady, compassionate, and present. Rita made a choice every day to live a joyful life.

When faced with cancer, Rita met it in the same way she met life – with strength, grace, and an unmistakable spark. Her positivity and faith never wavered, and her signature fun socks became a symbol of her spirit: vibrant, resilient, and full of personality even in the hardest of moments.

Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched, the memories she captured, and the love she gave so freely. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Rita was a graduate of Winamac High School and continued her education at Ball State University. After becoming a mother, she chose work that allowed her to remain close to home and be actively involved in raising her young children. As her family grew, so did her professional experiences. She worked as a reading aide at Rensselaer Middle School and later as a bus driver for Rensselaer School Corporation. Rita went on to hold positions with Carter Oil, White Castle Bakery, and Northway Products. Rita ultimately found her true calling in public service with the Jasper County Government, where she served as Jasper County Auditor from 1997 to 2004. During her tenure, she also contributed at the state level, serving as President of the Indiana Auditors Association in 2004 and as a board member of the Indiana Association of Counties. Rita’s true love, Ken, then brought her to La Porte, IN, where she served as Chief Deputy Auditor before her retirement. Always staying busy and helping others, Rita continued working during retirement as an Assistant Financial Coordinator at the Dunebrook Child Advocacy Center.

Rita, always and forever strong in her faith, was a member of Tracy Church in Hamlet, IN.

Preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Betty (Zook) Kuszmaul, son, Brett Steele, and brother-in-law, Rick Dilts. Left to cherish Rita’s memory are her husband, Ken Layton of La Porte, IN, sister, Becky Dilts of Winamac, IN, children, Julie Koczan of Rensselaer, IN, Troy (Beth), and Tracy Layton, both of La Porte, IN. Grandchildren, Jaydon Koczan-Steele of Indianapolis, IN, Jonah, and Julianna Koczan of Rensselaer, IN, and many nieces and nephews, cousins, and loved ones that Rita loved dearly and considered family.

The family wishes to express a heartfelt thank you to all medical professionals whose attentive care, gentle guidance, and unwavering compassion helped ease Rita’s journey. And to the Hospice team, your presence made a difficult time more peaceful than we could have imagined.

As a final act of generosity and giving, Rita chose to donate her body to science, ensuring that even in passing, she would continue to contribute to the care and advancement of others.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 16th, 2026, at First United Methodist Church at 1225 Michigan Ave. La Porte, IN 46350. Memorial will begin at 11:00 am CST with a Celebration of Life Luncheon,  immediately following.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel in La Porte.

To light a virtual candle, share a memory, or leave a message of comfort for the family, please visit esslingfuneralhome.com

Noreen Clare Peterson. She finally checked out peacefully at 91—on her own terms, just like everything else she ever did, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and kindness.

Noreen had numerous jobs throughout her career, working into her 80s. Whether it was in the garden, cow barn, or kitchen, she was never afraid of working hard or having a great time around family and friends. Her favorite job of all was being a grandmother.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Sylvester, two daughters, Lynn Peterson and Laura Raab, and her grandson, Bret Shepard.

She is survived by her daughter, Debra Sopko, two grandchildren, Andrew Good and Sarah Good-McLeod, and five great-grandchildren, who will no doubt carry on her stubborn streak and knack for stirring things up.

Heaven just got a lot more interesting. If there’s a bar, she’s running it. If there’s a fishing hole, she’s already got the best spot—don’t bother casting near her. Either way, she’s still having fun and causing trouble.

She’ll be missed… and probably still blamed.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel in La Porte.

Private burial will take place.

To light a virtual candle, share a memory, or leave a message of comfort for the family, please visit esslingfuneralhome.com

James “Jim” C. Menne Sr., 73, of Noblesville, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, May 1, surrounded by his loving family following a courageous battle with Glioblastoma brain cancer.

Born on June 26, 1952, in La Porte, Indiana, Jim was adopted as an infant by Walter and Leah (Reed) Menne. He spent his youth on the family’s hobby farm near Stillwell, developing a work ethic and love for community that would define his life. On August 17, 1974, he married Sandy Weidner, beginning a 51-year journey of partnership and family.

A proud 1970 graduate of La Porte High School, Jim dedicated his professional life to education. He earned degrees from Indiana University and Purdue Calumet before returning to his alma mater. Jim taught Science at La Porte High School for 11 years and served as Assistant Principal for 24 years. To many, he was "Coach," spending 24 seasons on the sidelines with the Slicer Football team. Jim’s final lesson to all of us was how to meet adversity with grace, strength, and dignity.

While he wore many hats—educator, coach, and administrator—his favorite title was "Pawpaw." Whether the family was gathered for a holiday or a quiet weekend, Jim was happiest when surrounded by his children and eight grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Sandy; children J. Craig (Heather) Menne Jr., Jacquelyne (Tom) Fagan, Melissa (Brooke Starkoff) Menne, Aimee (Caitlin) Menne; and his eight adored grandchildren: Avery, Tommy III, Molly, Kennedy, Anna, Dylan, Luke, and Emma.

Visitation will be held from 5:30 PM to 8 PM (CST) on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel. 1117 Indiana Avenue, La Porte.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 AM (CST), Friday, May 8, 2026, at Holy Family Parish, St. Joseph Church, 109 C. Street, La Porte, with burial to follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. Reverend Nate Edquist will officiate with Reverend Peter McCormick CSC concelebrating.

Family and friends may gather at 10 AM on Friday in the Funeral Home prior to the Mass.

To light a virtual candle, share a cherished memory, or leave a message of comfort for Jim’s family, please visit esslingfuneralhome.com.

Richard Lee Leslie, 61, of La Porte, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 7:55 a.m., at Northwest Health, La Porte.

He was born April 6, 1965, in Michigan City, to Frederick and Judy (Baker) Leslie.

On November 23, 1985, in Michigan City, he married Tamberlain (Ashmore) Leslie, who survives.

Richard was the proud owner of R.L. Roofing Inc. and served NW Indiana, Michiana, and SW Michigan since 1985. He was a huge basketball and Bears fan, and also enjoyed working out and being fit. He loved spending time with his five grandchildren and going out to the lake house, where he would hold fishing tournaments against the kids.

Richard is survived by his wife of 40 years, Tamberlain; children, Katelain Hutson, and Richard (Katie) Leslie II; brothers, Michael Leslie, Randy (Amy) Leslie, Fred (Kim) Leslie, and David (Lori) Leslie; five grandchildren, Cameron, Audrey, Charlotte, Joelle, and Lucas; and several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Jason Leslie.

A celebration of life will be held on Monday, May 4, 2026, at 11 a.m., at Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, 247 W. Johnson Rd., La Porte, (219) 362-3100. with Joey Walker and Marvin Jurjevic officiating. A visitation will be held on Sunday, from 1 to 5 p.m., on May 3, 2026, and from 10 a.m. Monday until the time of service. Entombment will follow at Swan Lake Memorial Gardens.

Please send condolences to the family at www.LakeviewFHC.com. Memorial contributions may be directed to Michiana Humane Society, 722 IN-212, Michigan City, IN 46360.