Ryne "Ryno" William Smitka

       Ryne William Smitka, better known by all who loved him as Ryno, age 35 of Chesterton, IN, passed away suddenly on February 25, 2021.  He was born on August 27, 1985 in Hammond, IN to Steve Smitka, who survives in Chesterton, IN and Robin Pledger, who survives in Navarre, FL.

       He is also survived by his siblings: Steven Smitka of East Chicago, IN, Matt Smitka of Chesterton, IN, and Samantha (Brian) Smitka-Skorupa of Valparaiso, IN; his paternal grandparents, Bill and Pat Smitka of Hammond, IN; his maternal grandfather, Ray Pledger of Navarre, FL; his step-father, Robin Kohn of Navarre, FL; his sister-in-law, Jasmin Smitka; and by his nieces, Dream Swan and Stormie Jackson.

       He was preceded in death by one of his very special and loving uncles, Mike Pledger in 2012 and by his maternal grandmother, Nadine Pledger in 2017.

       Ryno loved all sports, especially baseball.  He was a dedicated Cubs fan who rarely missed a game.  He also loved attending music festivals with his friends, of which he had many.  One of his all-time favorite bands was The Wood Brothers. To know Ryno was to love Ryno, and he could always be counted on to put a smile on your face. He was extremely thoughtful and caring, with the most genuine heart in the world, and so full of energy and love for all of his friends and family. He will be loved and missed immeasurably by everyone who knew him, and will never be forgotten. 

       A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, March 4, 2021 at 7 p.m. at White-Love Funeral Home, 525 S 2nd St., Chesterton, IN. The family will receive friends from 3 p.m. until time of service at the funeral home.  ***Masks must be worn at all times inside the funeral home and social distancing is mandatory at all times.  Please abide by floor markings for social distancing.  Please be prepared to wait in line outside the funeral home. ***

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

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