Raymond G. Poparad

Raymond George Poparad was born on August 19th, 1954 in Valparaiso Indiana to Emil and Sylvia Poparad of Burns Harbor Indiana. Ray would remain a lifelong resident of this town where he grew up with his sister Marlene and two brothers Robert and William. After graduating from Chesterton High School in 1972, Ray began a career in the Operating Engineers Local 150 and remained an active member for over 45 years. In 1978 he married the love of his life, Linda Laswell and they created a family. This family started with Stacey (Dale Gilchrist) and his grandsons, Collin and Daniel, then Jennifer, and finally Adam (Kate) and his new granddaughter, Piper Ray. During this time, he continued his career as an Operating Engineer and took on the role of a volunteer firefighter in Burns Harbor. A role that would eventually lead him to becoming the Fire Chief and serving for more than 30 years. Another one of his roles in the town he loved was serving as an elected official on the Burns Harbor town Council. This was a position that led him to be Town Council President where he served with pride by representing those that elected him. 

On December 13th, 2019 Ray passed away peacefully after a strong battle with cancer. Ray was a civic minded individual who valued family, community service and good deeds. He was a husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, mentor and leader of the community. In his spare time he was usually found working on projects in one of his barns, helping friends in times of needs and spending days with his family. One of his fondest summer activities was watching his grandsons play in the barns and ride four wheelers. His guidance and spirit for life will be greatly missed but not forgotten by his sister, Marlene (Wally Knapp), brother, Robert (Maria), and by his many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Emil and Sylvia Poparad and his brother, William Poparad (Barb).

For those that wish to say a final goodbye and offer condolences to his family, visitation will be in Chesterton Indiana at the White-Love Funeral Home on Thursday December 19, 2019 from 3-8pm.  Friday December 20th with visitation from 10:30-11:30  with service to follow and he will be interred at the Chesterton Cemetery.
 

Those that wish to attend are welcomed. Any questions about arrangements please contact the White-Love Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers please donate to Burns Harbor Fire Department and or VNA hospice of Valparaiso.

Memories may be shared at: www.whitelovefuneralhome.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Raymond G. Poparad, please visit our floral store.