Timothy J. Gust

Timothy Johnathon Gust, 42, of Crown Point, Indiana, passed away unexpectedly but peacefully in his sleep on September 2, 2026. He was born on July 20, 1984, in Crown Point, Indiana, to Carol Lynn (Lach) Kokotovich and the late Timothy Wayne Gust. Tim was a graduate of Merrillville High School, Class of 2002. He was a man who loved deeply, laughed often, and never hesitated to show compassion to others. He had a remarkable ability to make people feel accepted, valued, and loved exactly as they were. He was passionate about kindness and believed wholeheartedly that people should accept one another, love one another, and leave the world a little better than they found it. Tim shared a special and lasting bond with a beloved group of friends he had known since high school. Over the years, their friendship became much more than friendship... they were family. Some of his happiest memories were made surrounded by those he loved, joking, laughing, drinking, and staying up all night creating the kind of memories that last a lifetime. One of the greatest loves of Tim’s life was his nephew, Oakley. Their bond was something truly special. Tim adored him, spoiled him with love, and took immense pride in watching him grow. Even as his physical abilities became more limited in recent years, Tim never allowed those challenges to keep him from being there for Oakley. Whenever he could, he made every effort to attend his nephew’s sporting events, cheering him on and making memories together. He had every intention of being there to watch Oakley grow into the amazing young man he knew he would become. Tim may not get the opportunity to watch the years unfold as he had hoped, but the love, pride, and memories they shared will forever be a part of Oakley’s story. A devoted sports fan, Tim was a die-hard Chicago Bears fan and proudly cheered on the Chicago Cubs. He enjoyed football, gaming, considered himself a self-proclaimed foodie, and had a particular gift for winning at poker. Tim also had a deep love for heavy metal and rock and roll music. He was a talented bass player who loved a good jam session and the simple joy of making music with friends. Whether he gathered around with his closest friends or was simply enjoying the music he loved, these moments were another part of what made Tim happiest. Tim also had an incredible love for animals. Throughout his life, he shared his home and his heart with many beloved dogs and even a cat. His pets were an important part of his life, and the love and care he gave them reflected the same compassion he showed to the people around him. But perhaps more than any hobby or interest, Tim will be remembered for his generous heart. He was courageous, compassionate, and the kind of person who would willingly give a stranger the shirt off his back. In recent years, Tim faced the challenges of living with multiple sclerosis. Despite the difficulties the disease brought, he fought hard and refused to allow his diagnosis to define him. His strength, courage, and determination were a testament to the person he was. Tim is survived by his mother and stepfather, Carol Lynn and Douglas Keith Kokotovich; his brother and sister-in-law, Justin and Alexandria Gust; his stepsister, Jill Kokotovich; his aunt, Cindy Ruff; and his beloved nephew, Oakley Gust. He is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends who held a special place in his heart. He was preceded in death by his father, Timothy Wayne Gust; his maternal grandparents, John and Pauline Lach; his paternal grandparents, David and Janet Gust; his uncle, Dave Ruff Sr.; his aunt, Cheryl Lach; his uncle, Doug Mounts; and his cousin, Becky Mounts. Tim's life was far too short, and his passing leaves an immeasurable emptiness in the hearts of everyone who knew and loved him. The impact he made in his 42 years cannot be measured by the number of years he was given. It can be measured by the people he loved, the friendships he cherished, the laughter he shared, the compassion he showed, and the lives he touched simply by being himself. While his life here on earth was much shorter than any of us could have ever imagined, his legacy is legendary. His laughter, his kindness, his unwavering acceptance of others, his love for animals, and his enormous heart will live on in the people who were fortunate enough to know him. Tim will be loved, missed, and remembered for all of eternity. In honor of Tim’s lifelong love of the Chicago Bears, the family asks those attending his memorial dress casually, wearing Chicago Bears attire or clothing in the colors of blue and orange. And, in keeping with Tim’s competitive spirit, we kindly ask that any Green Bay Packers fans proceed with caution as we cannot guarantee that anyone in green and yellow attire will be protected. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Tim’s memory to an MS-related or pet-related charity of your choice. A memorial visitation celebrating Tim’s life will be held on Thursday, September 10, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until the time of the memorial service at 6:00 p.m. at Burns Funeral Home & Crematory located at 10101 Broadway in Crown Point, Indiana. Please visit Tim’s online obituary and guestbook at www.burnsfuneral.com.

Timothy J. Gust

July 20, 1984 - September 2, 2026