Obituary

Allan K. Hinkel, age 84 previously of Merrillville, IN passed away peacefully on July 24, 2020.  Allan “Big Al’s life was spent putting smiles on the faces of his family and friends. For 35 years, Al owned and operated Woodmar Dental Clinic in Hammond.  Al was well known for his legendary holiday displays, being an avid gardener, and his love for sharp, fast cars. He was a talented artist, and together with his wife, Joelyn, made many beautiful quilts they gifted to family and friends. He was well known for

Richard L. Smith, 66, of Crown Point passed away on July 27th at home surrounded by his family. He was born May 4, 1954 in Carbondale, IL. In 1977, Rick married Karla Stroud in Carterville, IL. Rick graduated from Southern IL University-Carbondale with a B.A. in Education before moving on to work for the IC railroad. He later spent most of his career at Metra. Rick and Karla lived in Chicago Heights, IL for many years where they raised their 2 daughters. Those that knew Rick will remember him as

Justin Eugene Sparks, 36, passed away on July 18, 2020. He was an electrician by trade. He enjoyed sports, fishing, hunting and just having a good time. He was of Christian faith. Justin was married to Jessica Sparks and together they had two sons. Justin will be greatly missed by all of his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Jessica, 2 sons Justin Eugene Jr. and Jameson Leo, his mother Vicky L. Sparks Jones, his sister Frair M. Poole, 3 nieces and 1 nephew, 5 aunts Anita Clark

Alphonso “Guero” R. Calleros, age 59, of Hammond, IN passed away July 11, 2020. Alphonso was born in East Chicago, IN to his late parents, Victor and Guadalupe Calleros. Alphonso is survived by his siblings; Lupe (Larry) Figueroa, Victor (Sylvia) Calleros, Josie (Gus) Herrera, his twin brother, Gustavo (Kim) Calleros, Irene (Salvador) Montes, and Angelica (Sergio) Sanchez. Alphonso had numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and great nephews. Guero was a very loving, funny, charismatic brother that will be deeply missed by his family and friends. Due to the

Francis Joseph Pokorny Jr., 74, died peacefully on July 18, 2020 at Journey Senior Living in Valparaiso, IN, joining his daughter, Kathryn Elizabeth (1981-99). Frank was born in Monongahela, PA on September 19, 1945 to Anna Elizabeth Zifchak and Francis Joseph Pokorny Sr., who preceded him in death. Frank was a member of the Donora High School class of 1963. He graduated from California State College in 1967 and was affiliated with the Sigma Tau Gamma Fraternity. After teaching one year in Arlington, VA, Frank relocated to the Midwest, where

Thomas E. McCarthy of Gary, IN passed away on July 18, 2020 in the comfort of his own home at the age of 85.  Tom was preceded by his mother and father, brother, and eldest son Thomas P. McCarthy. Thomas married his wife Carolyn P. McCarthy on October 2, 1954. Survived by Carolyn, they had 65 yrs. and 5 children together.  He is also survived by his sister Patricia Mccarthy Ison and his children Sherry McCarthy Bakker, Michael (Sue) McCarthy, Tammy McCarthy, and Vernon (Sharon) McCarthy.  They had 5 grandchildren

Mark W. VanHouten, age 40,  passed away on July 10, 2020. He is survived by his wife, 1 daughter, 5 sons, his mother and stepfather, and his sister. A celebration of life will be held at Faith Pentecostal Church of God, 3385 US-231, Rensselaer, IN 47978. Date and Time of service to be announced. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Mark's honor, to the Faith Pentecostal Church of God Children's Fund. Mark will be greatly missed by every life he touched.