Lifelong Chesterton resident Fred Edward Lorenz, 88, died Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2010, at Porter Valparaiso Hospital Campus.

He was born June 17, 1921, the son of Fred J. and Florence (Johnson) Lorenz, who preceded him in death.

In 1946 he married Marjorie Michaels, who in 1990 also preceded him in death.

He is survived by two daughters, Linda Byrt of Porter and Carole (Richard) Loniewski of LaPorte; six grandchildren, Arthur Blackard, Lawrence Blackard, Sean Byrt, Danita Cindric, Jeffrey Loniewski, and Lori Loniewski; ten great-grandchildren, Michael and Matthew, Michael, Meghan and Melissa, Isabelle and Hana, Vincent and Elizabeth, and Dylan; a sister, Evelyn Brickner of Liberty Township; and a brother, Charles (Madelyn) Lorenz of Portage.

He was preceded in death by his son, Michael Lorenz; a daughter, Evann Krause; two grandchildren, Kathy Zilz and Vincent Byrt; and a sister, Eleanor Frank.

Fred was a 1939 graduate of Liberty High School and served proudly with the U.S. Seventh Army in North Africa, Italy, and Germany in World War II.

He was a life-member of American Legion Charles Pratt Post No. 94 in Valparaiso and of the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 23 in Michigan City as well as a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aire No. 2517 in Valparaiso.

Fred was retired from U.S. Steel Gary Works, where he worked as superintendent in the billet mill with 35 years of service.

Farming was Fred’s vocation and avocation, however, and he farmed throughout his life. He was also the owner of Flannery’s Tavern for many years.

Fred will be remembered for his generosity and kind-heartedness.

In accordance with his wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral service.

A private family graveside service will be held at Chesterton Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Adam Benjamin V.A. Outpatient Clinic, 9330 Broadway, Crown Point, IN 46307.

Arrangements are under the care of White-Love Funeral Home, 525 S. Second St. in Chesterton.

For information call 926-1309.

Posted 1/6/2010