Paul Bernard Poracky

Paul Bernard Poracky, J.D., M.B.A., age 71, of Ogden Dunes, Indiana, passed away unexpectedly on May 5, 2025. Paul shared more than 50 years of love, laughter, and partnership with his wife and best friend, Jennifer (née Miller), who survives. Together, they raised three daughters who he absolutely adored: Lara (Robert) Gatliff, Dana (Michael) Staehle, and Molly (Brendan) McGuirl. Paul was overjoyed to take on his favorite role yet: “Grandpa” to four grandchildren: Robert Michael Jr. and Evelyn Louise Gatliff, Cora Ann Staehle, and Owen James McGuirl, who all brought endless joy to his life. Paul is also survived by his siblings, John Poracky (Liz Finan) and Ann (James) Adams, along with many cherished nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Bernard Francis Poracky, M.D. and Elizabeth Mae (Meyers) Poracky, R.N., and by his dear sister, Jean Haley. Born on July 27, 1953, in Chicago, Illinois, Paul spent his early years in the city before moving with his family to Merrillville, Indiana, and later settling in the quiet lakeside town of Ogden Dunes. He deeply admired his parents, whose warmth, work ethic, and unwavering support helped shape the man he became. Their example stayed with him through every season of life. As a spirited little boy in Chicago, Paul once rode his tricycle straight into a busy intersection—an early sign of the boldness and curiosity that would carry him through life. He graduated from Andrean High School, class of 1971, then went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in business finance and industrial management from Purdue University in 1975. It was there that he met Jennifer and began a lifelong love story. Paul continued his education at Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business earning his MBA in 1976 and later completed his Juris Doctor at John Marshall Law School in Chicago in 1984. Paul’s legal career spanned decades and was marked by thoughtful counsel, deep commitment, and genuine care for those he served. He maintained bar licenses in three states—Indiana, Illinois, and Texas—because Paul believed if something was worth doing, it was worth doing to the fullest. But his passions extended far beyond the courtroom. Paul had an infectious personality and a knack for storytelling that could light up any room. Whether retelling a legendary golf shot, delivering a one-liner or cringe-worthy “Dad joke,” or reminiscing about the time his grade school rock band beat the Jackson 5 at a Navy Pier music competition (yes, really), Paul always left people smiling. It came as no surprise when Paul was voted Best Dressed his senior year. His style, like his personality, made a lasting impression. Paul placed immense value on education, both in his own life and in the lives of his daughters. He was endlessly proud that all three earned Master’s degrees, something that filled him with pride and a deep respect for their hard work. On busy school mornings, Paul handled the chaos with his signature charm. If there wasn’t time for breakfast at home, he’d happily detour to Burger King for French toast sticks to make sure his daughters were full and ready to take on the day at Nativity. This sweet tradition perfectly captured his mix of practicality, thoughtfulness, and dad humor. He loved music of all kinds, especially when paired with great food. Some of his most memorable meals were enjoyed in New Orleans. He cherished traveling the world with Jennifer, particularly during their time spent in Venice, Italy, soaking up the decadent culture, and in Yellowstone National Park, where the mountain views truly took his breath away. Paul was also a daily neighborhood walker, averaging 20,000+ steps a day with his loyal dog by his side. His deep love for animals—especially dogs—started early, with his beloved poodle “Zsa Zsa,” whom he treated like royalty and loved fiercely. A loyal Purdue basketball fan, Paul loved life’s simple pleasures—beach walks, mountain hikes, bike rides, the perfect Spotify playlists, and quiet moments with the people he loved most. More than anything, Paul loved his family. He was proud of his daughters and the lives they built, and he found so much joy in being “Grandpa.” He never missed a chance to share a photo, tell a story, or brag a little. His marriage to Jennifer was the heart of his life and together they shared many happy adventures. Paul’s faith was a steady presence in his life. He believed in God and leaned into prayer each day for guidance and gratitude. He didn’t preach it because he lived it, through his treatment of others and the loving way he moved through the world. Paul’s absence leaves a deep void in the lives of those who knew and loved him, but his spirit will live on through his family and the many memories they made together. A visitation will be held on Friday, May 9, from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Burns Funeral Home, 10101 Broadway, Crown Point, IN 46307. A Funeral Mass will take place on Monday, May 12, at 10:00 AM at St. Paul Catholic Church, 1855 Harrison Blvd, Valparaiso, IN 46385, followed by interment at Calumet Park Cemetery, 2305 West 73rd Avenue, Merrillville, IN 46410. www.burnsfuneral.com

Paul Bernard Poracky

July 27, 1953 - May 5, 2025