Michael J. Gora

1952 - 2024

Michael J. Gora

Jul 31, 1952 - Oct 23, 2024

CROWN POINT, IN - Michael J. Gora, age 72, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home on Wednesday, October 23, 2024.

He is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Linda Gora; children: Chelsea (Tom) Van Egtern and Dylan (Sofia) Gora; grandchildren: Michael, John, Autumn, Apollo, Konstantinos, Daisy, and grandchild #7 (expected Dec 2024); brother, Robert (Maureen) Gora; sister, Lisa (Rob) Ilgin; sister, Amy (Mike) Zwierz; sister, Marilyn Becka; and his canine companions, Zoey, Maple, Clover, Boomer and Benji.

Preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Virginia Gora; sister, Susan Hughes; and his beloved family dogs Pugsly, Tinkerbell, and Biggie.

Michael was born July 31, 1952 in Hammond, IN. He was a 1970 graduate of T.F. North High School and went on to begin working at Pepsi in Munster, IN, that same year, where he worked until retirement 41 years later. Originally from Calumet City, Michael met his wife Linda, and together they moved to Crown Point to build their home and their life and grow their family. There, they enjoyed all the good parts that life had to offer and were each others' source of support and comfort during the lows of Michael's battle with cancer and its complications.

Michael was known for being able to strike up a conversation with anyone at any time! He genuinely loved to talk, and listen. One of his favorite activities was playing music, which he did as a disc jockey from the 1970s thru the mid 2010s. When he wasn't working or playing music, Michael enjoyed spending time outside, gardening and landscaping (he had quite the green thumb!), birdwatching, and learning bird calls. This came in handy for many family trips up to the family cottage in Wisconsin where he loved to fish and explore with his children. He was first and foremost, always a family man.

Michael was a loving husband, dad, brother, and papa. His presence will be sorely missed by his entire family and all of his friends.

"Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt." - John Muir

Visitation will be held on Monday, October 28, 2024 from 1:00-3:30 p.m. with a Funeral Service at 3:30 p.m. at Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 8941 Kleinman Road (one block south of Ridge Road) Highland, IN. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your local food bank.

For additional information, please contact Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center Konnie Kuiper - Michael Kuiper-Vass by calling us at 219-838-0800 or visiting us at www.hillsidefhcares.com.