Daniel A. Divich

My beloved Daniel A. Divich, 63, of Miller Beach, Gary, Indiana passed away peacefully surrounded by incredible love of family on January 10, 2025, after illness. Affectionately known as BigDan because of his larger-than-life presence and the giant space he held in our hearts. Dan was born in Gary, IN and graduated from Highland High School. He raised his family in Portage, IN and lived also in Hollywood, FL and Sarasota, FL before returning to Gary, IN. Dan was a retired train Conductor from NICTD/South Shore RR. Dan leaves behind his wife, Sandra, who was blessed to share nearly 40 years of love, laughter and adventure. He proudly and lovingly leaves sons, Daniel II (Brandi) of Vero Beach, FL and Nicholas (Holli) of Laporte, IN, daughter, Kristine Sharpenter (Marc) of Ft Myers, FL and a handful of delightful & beautiful granddaughters. He is survived by his father, Milan "Butch" (Martha) Divich of Miller Beach, Gary, IN, sister, Debra Settle (George) of Portage, IN, as well as his two favorite nephews. Dan was preceded in death by his mother, Barbara (Kushner) Divich, grandparents, Abraham and Lola Kushner, Adam and Ann Divich. The assistance and love of life-long friend, Kevin (Debbie) O'Reilly eased his final days. Dan enjoyed boating, beaching, barbecuing lamb, growing flowers, the beauty of nature, traveling and being the life of the party. There wasn't much he couldn't fix and if he couldn't he always "knew a guy". His gift of making something out of nothing was unparalleled & kept life exciting. His kindness and generosity to every living being, along with the sheer joy of living, was apparent to all who were lucky enough to spend time with him. A memorial service will be held and announced at a future time, and we ask everyone who knew this incredible man to join us to raise a toast, give tribute, and share stories, as he loved to tell and hear a good story. The loss and devastation is simply too much to do anything more than breathe right now and I ask for understanding. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Humane Society of Northwest Indiana or Animal Control of Gary IN, because BigDan loved all creatures great and small. Perhaps Gladys Knight said it best..." I guess you could say that I've been lucky, Well I guess you could say that it's all because of you...You'll be there between each line of pain and glory 'cause you're the best thing that ever happened to me." I thank God that he brought you into my life. I have faith that He will bring us together again. Thank you for picking me. In the galaxy that was our family, you were the sun. We were so lucky to have been in your orbit. Burns Funeral Home & Crematory entrusted with arrangements. www.BurnsFuneral.com

Daniel A. Divich

March 24, 1961 - January 10, 2025