Mike Mendez Cortez

Mike Mendez Cortez, age 79, of Lake Station, Indiana, passed away on June 27, 2025. Born in Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, Mike moved to the United States as a young man and graduated from Washington High School. He became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1970 and served honorably in the United States Army — a proud moment in a life marked by perseverance and quiet strength. He shared many cherished moments with his beloved wife, Virginia — from quiet breakfasts out together to enjoying a glass of wine on their back patio, taking in the peaceful beauty of wildlife and the river. Mike was a devoted husband and a true gentleman. He made it a point to drive Virginia to and from work each day — a small but constant act of love that reflected the depth of his care. He was her sweetheart, never shy about expressing his affection, and always made her feel treasured. He loved working on home improvement projects, collecting antiques, and unwinding with classic films or World War II documentaries. Some of his favorite memories were made out on the river, piloting his pontoon boat with a smile and a calm hand. Mike was a devoted family man and a loving father. His children, nieces, and nephews have fond memories of camping trips and family outings — joy-filled moments that have become treasured stories for generations. His home on Willow Drive became the backdrop for years of holiday family gatherings, backyard cookouts, and laughter-filled nights on the patio overlooking the river. He was also known for his warm laugh, handyman know-how, and dependable presence. Mike had a sharp and playful sense of humor and was a favorite brother and uncle to many who adored his jokes and joyful spirit. He held a special bond with his nieces Rena (Tony) Navarro and Belen (fiancé Dario Pantoja) Garza, whose regular visits brought him great joy and connection. Mike shared a deep and loving connection with his sisters. He greatly admired his younger sister, Esther Whitaker, and was proud of her. Esther kept in close contact, regularly calling and checking in — a relationship Mike deeply cherished. He was also very close to his sister Cheli Cortez. Cheli often invited him over and made him home-cooked meals, giving him comfort and companionship that meant the world to him. Mike was a man of many trades. He began and ended his career as a welder — a craft that reflected both his skill and resilience. Over the years, he also worked for the Indiana Bell phone company and WorldCom Telecommunications. After retiring from his primary career, Mike continued to stay active in the workforce as a tax preparer for H&R Block and served with the Lake County Board of Elections and Registration, maintaining ballot machines. There wasn’t a tool he didn’t know how to use. Among his children, Mike shared a particularly close bond with his son Michael. The two spent countless hours together camping at Indiana Beach, fishing, riding his Harley Davidson to motorcycle rallies, going horseback riding, and taking road trips to Texas and Mexico. Mike passed down a wealth of knowledge — from home maintenance and woodworking to electrical, plumbing, and vehicle repair. During Michael’s high school years, the two lived together in the house on Willow Drive, working side by side on home improvement projects like building the fireplace, painting the house, installing insulation, outdoor lighting, and constructing a backyard fence. Their time together created a foundation of skills, memories, and love that Michael will carry forward for the rest of his life. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Veronica April Cortez; his brothers, Reynaldo “Guero” Cortez and Robert Cortez; his sister, Cheli Cortez; his parents, Miguel Cortez Sanchez and Consuelo Cortez Mendez; and his grandson, Ethan Zayne Kalberer. Mike is survived by his devoted wife, Virginia Cortez; his sister, Esther (Andrew) Whitaker; his brother, Omero (Cynthia) Cortez; his children, Ruben (Tina) Cortez, Dina (fiancé Brian Rushing) Cortez, Michael (Amber) Cortez, and Eric (Jlysa) Cortez; his sister-in-law, Gloria (Robert) Cortez; and his grandchildren, Devon (fiancé Baylee Eaton) Cortez, Karsen Cortez, Michaelene Flores, Breyonna Kalberer, Sydnee Kalberer, Mackenzie Koby, Nicholas Funes, Andriana (Michael) Jackson, Davis Cortez; and six great grandchildren. Visitation will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Burns Funeral Home & Crematory, 701 E 7th St, Hobart, IN 46342, with a funeral service immediately following at 2:00 PM. In keeping with his wishes, Mike will be cremated. His memory will live on in the hearts and stories of those who loved him. www.BurnsFuneral.com

Mike Mendez Cortez

January 8, 1946 - June 27, 2025