Carmen I. Mendez

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Carmen I. Mendez, age 84 of East Chicago, IN on Tuesday, February 4, 2025.  Born on November 12, 1940 in Santa Isabela, Puerto Rico, Carmen lived a life rooted in hard work, love, laughter, and devotion to her family.

Carmen was preceded in death by her husband, David Mendez; parents, Luis DeJesus and Maria DeJesus; brother, Luis DeJesus, Jr.  She is lovingly remembered by her siblings: Analydia (Radames) Sanchez, Betty (Juan) Arroyo, Pedro (Star) DeJesus, Lucy (Hilario) Sanchez, and Marlin DeJesus; many cherished cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

She is survived by her daughters, Wanda (Julio) Rodriguez and Yolanda (Bernard) Howard and son, Pedro (Gracie) Echevarria.  Carmen was especially proud to be a grandmother to: Joel Rodriguez, Julio (Priscilla) Rodriguez, Jennifer Howard, Mariah Echevarria, and Michael Howard; great grandmother to: Madison Howard, Julia Rodriguez, and Parker Howard.

Carmen was a woman of strength and integrity who provided for her family with unwavering dedication and love.  She spent 35 years working at Albert Givens Clothing Manufacturer as a seamstress, with a strong work ethic and pride in what she did.  She was the heart of our family, and through our heartache, we are comforted knowing she is at peace and watching over us.

Visitation at the FIFE FUNERAL HOME, 4201 Indianapolis Blvd., East Chicago, IN will be from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm on Wednesday, February 12, 2025.  Private cremation to follow.  To share an online condolence, logon to www.fifefuneralhome.com

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