Jack Tosh

1936 - 2025

Jack Tosh, age 89, of Portage, Indiana, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, August 24, 2025. A devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Jack's love for his family, Kentucky basketball and passion for golf, defined a life well-lived. His legacy endures through the values he instilled, and the memories cherished by those who knew him.

Born in Kentucky to Ezra and Marie Tosh, Jack grew up with a deep appreciation for hard work, family and community. He moved to Northwest Indiana shortly upon graduation and married the love of his life, Kay VanDoring, on March 23, 1957. In their sixty-eight years of marriage, they built a life filled with joy, faith and family.

Jack's passion for golf was nothing short of legendary. As a dedicated, long-time member of the Supervisors Club in Hobart, IN, he could often be found on the fairways with friends and loved ones, sharing laughter and friendly competition unless, of course, there was a Kentucky basketball game on TV. Jack delighted in recounting his adventures on the course, from his hole-in-one, to wayward shots, to the breaking 80; captivating everyone with his tales and keeping the spirit of the game alive in every story he told.

He devoted over forty years to U.S. Steel, holding various positions including management, before retiring in 1996 to spend more time with his family. Jack and Kay would spend winters in Pawley's Island, SC playing golf and enjoying the beach. They also had a shared passion for woodworking, dedicating many hours to crafting distinctive items that are now prominently displayed in their families' homes.

Jack is survived by his beloved wife, Kay, along with their children: Laurie (David) Guess of Kouts, IN; Sherry (Richard) Teat of Waxaw, NC; and Michael (Shelly) Tosh of Wales, WI. He is also survived by his brother, Ron (Lynn) Tosh of Grants Pass, OR, as well as seventeen cherished grandchildren and forty-two great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy to his life. Known affectionately as "Grandpa", he maintained a close relationship with his grandchildren and was a supportive presence in their lives. He wasn't one for the spotlight, but his impact was profound, and his love will stay with us forever.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Joe Tosh, and his sister, Ann Houston.

A memorial service will be held at Graceland Cemetery in Valparaiso, at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 30th, followed by a celebration of life at Faith Fellowship Church. Friends and family are welcome to attend and share their memories. The family respectfully requests that, in lieu of flowers, contributions be directed to Operation Christmas Child, a ministry of Samaritan's Purse, which holds special significance for Jack and his family.

https://www.samaritanspurse.org/what-we-do/operation-christmas-child.

Jack's dedication to family, integrity, and community will remain an enduring influence on all who had the privilege of knowing him.