Joseph Robert Marando

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Joseph R. Marando, 84, on Good Friday, April 18, 2025. Born on October 8, 1940, Joe was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, proud Italian, and cherished friend to many. The most important thing in Joe’s life, without question, was his family. You couldn’t have a conversation with him without hearing about the pride and joy he felt for his wife, his two daughters, and his four grandsons. Nothing made him happier than watching his grandsons grow into the fine young men they are today. He took great pride in attending their sporting events and school activities, celebrating their accomplishments, and being the constant, steady role model they looked up to. He passed along not just stories and traditions, but also the strong morals and values that will live on through them. A proud Italian, Joe deeply valued his heritage and found great joy in preserving traditions and sharing them with his family. He also had a passion for travel. Among his favorite destinations were Italy, Prague, Poland, Germany, and the many beautiful islands of the Caribbean—each place adding new memories and stories to his life. His devout faith was a guiding light throughout his life. For over 50 years, he was an active and dedicated member of St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Merrillville and later, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Valparaiso. Joe proudly served in the United States Army Reserves for six years – a commitment that reflected his deep sense of duty, discipline, and service to others. After retiring from Rochester Midland following nearly 30 years of service as a Regional Sales Manager, Joe stayed busy doing the things he loved—working around his home, taking great pride in his lawn and his cars, and spending time with a close-knit group of friends who were like family to him. Joe was a graduate of Merrillville High School, class of 1959, and faithfully attended most of his class reunions. He went on to graduate from Indiana University in 1964, where he was a proud member of Phi Kappa Tau fraternity and a lifetime member of the IU Alumni Association. He never missed a game and was always eager for a visit to the campus he held close to his heart. Joe was the son of the late Joseph S. and Leda Marando, and the dearest brother of Delores (Don) Mriscin. He will also be fondly remembered by his cherished nieces and nephews, who brought him great joy throughout the years. He will be deeply missed by his wife and soulmate of 58 years, Karen; his cherished daughters, Ann Marie Jaros and Julie (Jim) Roytan; his four beloved grandsons, Kevin and Ryan Jaros, and Joey and Jacob Roytan; his son-in-law, John Jaros; and the many friends whose lives he touched so deeply. His legacy of love, faith, family, and integrity will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. A visitation will be held on Thursday, May 8, 2025, from 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. at Burns Funeral Home & Crematory, 10101 Broadway, Crown Point, IN. Mass of Christian Burial will be on Friday, May 9, 2025, at 10 a.m. directly at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, 509 W. Division Road, Valparaiso, IN. Rev. Michael Kopil and Rev. Douglas Mayer concelebrating. Entombment at Calumet Park Cemetery, Merrillville, IN. www.burnsfuneral.com

Joseph Robert Marando

October 8, 1940 - April 18, 2025