Former Chesterton resident Roger Wayne Connaway, 56, of Valparaiso passed away Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2009 at his home.

Born on Sept. 29, 1953 in Gary, he was the son of James Lester and Lowees (Gilbert) Connaway. Roger graduated in 1971 from Portage High School and worked as a specialty meat cutter for several years at Ruge Meats and most recently at Beef Mart in Valparaiso. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hunting and fishing.

On April 4, 1975 in Portage, he married Cathy Lakin, who survives. Also surviving are two children Ryan Connaway (wife Kari) of Porter and Nicole DeMeo (husband Joe) of Valparaiso; mother, Lowees Connaway of Portage; grandchildren, Masun and Gavin Connaway and Joey DeMeo; and brothers Bill Connaway of Chesterton and Butch Connaway (Joyce) of Valparaiso. He was preceded in death by his father.

Following cremation at Angelcrest Crematory in Valparaiso, a memorial service will be held on Saturday, Dec. 5 at 1 p.m. at Evangelical Covenant Church, 5051 Central Ave, Portage. Memorials may be made to VNA Hospice, 501 Marquette, Valparaiso, IN 46383. moellerfuneralhome.com

Posted 12/4/2009