Gus Andre Cokusis, of Portage passed away Nov. 10, 2006. He was 85.

He was born in Souston, France Nov. 16, 1920, the son of Christ and Aurelie Cokusis, both of whom preceded him in death.

He is survived by children, Andrea (David) Blue of Barrington, Ill., Camille (Richard) Gudino of Valparaiso, Richard (Briana) Cokusis of Spokane, Wash. Gus E. (Christine) Cokusis of Hebron and Cynthia Cokusis of Chesterton; grandchildren, Scott, Brett and Matt Blue, Kim Johannes, Ginger Lenig, Jodi, Lethen, Sarah Ferguson, Heather, Joshua, Christopher and Jacob Cokusis, Joseph Cokusis, Julie Coppola and Jennifer Ancell and 11 great-grandchildren.

He is also preceded in death by one brother, Pete and his beloved wife, June.

Gus was a graduate of Lew Wallace High School. In eighth grade, he was invited to play drums with the high school band at the World’s Fair in Chicago. After graduation, he joined the Coast Guard. Upon his release for the Coast Guard, he joined Mel Fisher’s Dance Band where he was the lead drummer. He was a retired firefighter from the City of Gary Fire Department.

Private Family Graveside Services will be conducted at a later date at the Chesterton Cemetery.

There will be no visitation.

Memorials may be given to Liberty Bible Church, Chesterton.

Arrangements are under the direction of White-Love Funeral Home, 525 S. 2nd St., Chesterton. For information, call 926-1309.

Posted 11/15/2006