Paul David Redlarczyk

1952 - 2025

Paul David Redlarczyk

Feb 20, 1952 - Mar 27, 2025

Paul David Redlarczyk, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2025, at the age of 73. Paul was born on February 20, 1952, in East Chicago, Indiana, to Robert and Marie Redlarczyk, Paul lived a life dedicated to his family, work, and community.

Paul was the loving husband of Diane Redlarczyk whom were married for 51 amazing years together. Paul and Diane shared a beautiful life together and raised three children: Christopher (Stefanie), Angela (Jack), and Julie (Dennis) and two amazing loving granddaughters, Lacey Redlarczyk and Ella Rattay.

Paul was one of six siblings-Robert (Teddi) Bonnie (Rick), Greg (Jen), Terry (Tammy) and Sherry-preceded in death by his parents Robert and Marie and his brother Terry.

Paul's devotion to his family and work was unwavering; he was an awesome father who supported his loved ones to the fullest.

A 1970 graduate of Gavit High School, Paul began his long career at Bethlehem Steel. During that same year, earning the nickname "Big Red" among his colleagues. Paul worked diligently at the steel mill from 1970 till 2022, retiring after an impressive 52 years. Specializing in the electrical/mechanical areas of all the heavy overhead cranes, Paul was a master of his craft and would be requested at other plants to help in fixing their cranes. He took great pride in teaching young and old engineers how to spot issues and solve complex problems, always emphasizing that safety was priority number one. Known for his ability to fix anything, he loved sharing his expertise with his children and others to educate them for the future. Alongside his civilian career, he proudly served in the U.S. Army Reserves from 1970 to 1976.

Paul's talents extended beyond the steel mill. With his wife Diane, he was an active member of the Portage Jaycees from 1979 to 1984, contributing to his community and help with fundraisers. While still working he ventured into real estate development, playing a key role in creating the second phase of the Woods of the Winding Creek subdivision in Valparaiso, Indiana-a lasting mark of his vision and hard work. He spent countless years rebuilding the old Church's electrical and mechanicals and he restarted the fish fry's working endless hours to make the community and church thrive. Paul and Diane and the kids would enjoy their time together at their cottage that has been in the family since 1952 in Michigan where Paul maintained and rebuilt the cabin for all the family to enjoy.

Paul will be remembered for his stern teachings, big heart, hands-on spirit, and the love he poured into everything he did. Paul was a "workaholic" His legacy lives on through his wife Diane, his children Christopher, Angela, and Julie, and his two granddaughters Lacey and Ella and the countless lives he touched with his kindness and generosity.

Services to celebrate Paul's life will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, located at 356 W. 700 N.., Valparaiso, IN 46385. A brief visitation will begin at 10:15 AM inside the church followed by a Catholic Mass starting at 11:00 AM. A full luncheon to feed everyone will take place on the same church property immediately after the service. All friends and family are encouraged to join. During the luncheon, pictures and videos will be shared, the family is inviting everyone to come together and exchange stories of Paul's "BIG RED'S" remarkable life.