Michael J. Villarreal

Michael J. Villarreal, age 82, of Whiting, Indiana passed away on Sunday, January 24, 2021.  Michael was born in East Chicago, Indiana on August 16, 1938 to Jose and Mary Guadalupe Villarreal.  He is survived by two sons:  Michael (Maura) Villarreal and John Villarreal of Phoenix, AZ; daughter, Victoria Villarreal of San Tan Valley, AZ; five grandchildren:  Vincent, Amanda, Anthony, Ariana and Selena; brother, Peter (Mary) Villarreal; sisters:  Rita Sappe, Mary Lou Ortega, Frances Sotelo, Teresa Villarreal and Cindy Gonzalez; many nieces and nephews; special niece, Rachel Villarreal who was a great help to her uncle throughout the years.  Preceded in death by his parents; siblings:  Robert, Richard, Joseph and Edward; best friend, Ronald Scott, who helped Michael when he was disabled for two years.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, January 29, 2021 at 10:00 am at St. Patrick Church, 3810 Grand Blvd., East Chicago, IN with Rev. Ivan Carrillo officiating.  Burial to follow at St. John Cemetery, Hammond, IN.  Visitation will be at St. Patrick Church on Friday, January 29, 2021 from 9:00 am until the time of the Mass at 10:00 am.

Michael graduated from St. Patrick grade school in East Chicago, IN and Bishop Noll Institute, Hammond, IN in 1958.  He was a U.S. Air Force Veteran with an Honorable Discharge.  He was employed at Inland Steel Company, Stratojac Winer Manufacturing in Hammond for many years, and Community Hospital in Munster, IN until his retirement.

Michael served as Cub Scout Master at Washington Elementary School under the direction of Sr. Pat Lowe, Den Mother, who was of great help.  A Member of St. Patrick Church, Indiana Harbor, and was a CCD teacher under the direction of Sr. Patricia, PHJC.  He was also a member of the Cursillos de Chrisitandad Movement.  He served as Co-Leader of the Family Enrichment Program for two years.  Michael later became a member of the Assembly of God Church also in Indiana Harbor, with Pastor Sanchez and Pastor Paez.  He served as a dedicated Board Member, Usher, and Grounds Caretaker.  He was a Sunday School Teacher for nine years and secretary for the Men’s Service for two years.

Michael enjoyed traveling, reading and drawing.  Michael will be remembered as a Loving Father, Grandfather, and as a faithful man who believed in serving God according to his talents.  He was a good and loving father and provider for his family.  Michael will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew him.  May he rest in eternal peace.  To share an online condolence, logon to www.fifefuneralhome.com.

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