Rosa Marie (Benavente) Estrada

Rosa Marie Estrada, 65, of Crown Point, passed away peacefully on September 19, 2025, surrounded by the family she cherished.

Born and raised in East Chicago, Rosa graduated from Washington High School in 1977. Soon after, she married the love of her life and began the two callings that defined her: raising a family and serving others. Rosa dedicated more than 30 years to the United States Postal Service, where she rose to leadership as president of the American Postal Workers Union local chapter. Her sharp understanding of labor law and her fierce advocacy earned the respect of colleagues throughout the region. She even began law school before deciding her heart belonged at home with her growing family. In her final years with the Postal Service, Rosa found joy as a passport clerk, delighting in helping people begin their own journeys.

Faith was the foundation of Rosa’s life. A devoted Catholic, she lived her beliefs through kindness, generosity, and steadfast love. Her proudest accomplishment was raising three strong, successful sons who, in turn, blessed her with beloved grandchildren. Rosa relished every moment with them—taking them on adventures, teaching them to sew and cook, tending gardens together, and instilling in them the confidence to know their worth.

Rosa’s home overflowed with the warmth of her cooking, from her legendary Thanksgiving stuffing to the treats she discovered while shopping QVC late at night. She was an artist with fabric, creating exquisite quilts entirely from her own imagination, each one a lasting testament to her creativity and care.

Rosa is survived by her husband, Victor Estrada; her sons Victor Estrada (Jessica), Nicholas Estrada, and Alfredo Estrada (Leticia); and her adored grandchildren Sol, Little Victor, Alexander, Iris, and Eva. She also leaves behind siblings: Dr. Jorge Benavente (Nancy), Alfonso Benavente, Martha McDonald (Rory), Jose Benavente (Diana), and Theresa Ruelas, as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jorge and Quintina Benavente.

Rosa’s life was one of love, faith, and service. Her legacy lives on in the family she nurtured, the colleagues she inspired, and the countless lives she touched.

Funeral services will be held Friday, September 26, 2025 at 10:30 am at FIFE FUNERAL HOME, 4201 Indianapolis Blvd., East Chicago, IN with Rev. Terry Steffens officiating.  Burial to follow at Ridgelawn Cemetery, Gary, IN.  Visitation at the FIFE FUNERAL HOME will be from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Thursday, September 25, 2025 and from 10:00 am to 10:30 am on Friday morning. To share an online condolence, logon to www.fifefuneralhome.com

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