William "Bill" J. Smitka

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of William "Bill" Smitka at age 90. Bill passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, May 7. His beloved wife and dearest friend, Patricia, of 68 years, was faithfully by his side. It was rare to see the pair apart. Bill was born in 1934 in Whiting, Indiana and worked at Union Carbide for many years before retiring from Tri-City Mental Health. Bill is survived by his children, Steve Smitka of Chesterton, Tom Smitka of Hammond, Carol (Mark) McKechnie of Munster, Diane (Steve) Jabaay of Lansing, Janet Opinker of Schererville, and Bill (Marcy) Smitka of Munster. Grandchildren: Steven Smitka, Matt Smitka, Sam (Brian) Skorupa, Megan (CJ) Sun, Mark (fiancé: Tina) McKechnie, Michael McKechnie, Danny (Sam) Smitka, Grace Opinker. Billy Smitka and Addison Smitka. Great-grandchildren: Gwen and Whitney Sun, Anna and Danny Smitka. Bonus great-grandchildren Dream and Storm. Sister in-law Marge Stiscak. Many nieces and nephews who were dear to him. Preceded in death by his loving grandson Ryno. Parents Joseph and Mary Smitka. Brothers: Jim (Lorraine) Smitka, Bernie Smitka. Sisters: Florence (Joe) Maginot, Joann (George) Pieters. In laws George and Caroline Stiscak, and brother in-law George Stiscak.

Bill was a devoted husband who held his family close to his heart. A gentle soul and man of honesty, he was known for his kindness and rarely spoke an ill word. His humor created cherished memories his family will hold onto forever. He enjoyed attending his grandchildren's sporting events. Bill was a lifelong Cubs fan who spent many summers with his family sitting in the upper deck at Wrigley Field. We are thankful he got to experience the Cubs win the 2016 World Series. Bill was also a member of Holy Trinity Croation Church in East Chicago where he served as an Eucharistic Minister and alter server.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at a later date at Holy Trinity Croatian Church in East Chicago. For updates or to send an online condolence, log on to: www.fifefuneralhome.com

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