David P. Markovich of Valparaiso, formerly of Whiting and Dyer, passed away Monday, Jan. 3, 2011 surrounded by his loving family and dearest friends. He was 79.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Barbara; sons, Mark Markovich of Chesterton and Tony (wife Nancy) Markovich of Valparaiso; daughter Kathie (husband John) Bobos of Las Vegas, Nevada; grandchildren David Markovich, Kelly Markovich, Julie Bobos and Brian Bobos; step grandchildren Jessica Townsend and Kristina Townsend; great grandson Jonathan Bobos; step great grandchildren Daniel Inhurst and Logan Thompson; brother Gerald (Marlene) Markovich; sister Margaret (John) Brooks; and numerous nieces and nephews.

David was born on Feb. 3, 1931 in Whiting to the late Joseph and Margaret (Grenchik) Markovich. He was a graduate of Catholic Central (Bishop Noll Institute) and attended Arizona State University, where he received a football scholarship. He served in the Korean War, where he played football for the United States Army/USO. He was retired from LTV Steel after 35 years of service. In his retirement he worked with Mark I Homes. He was an avid casino attendee and penny slot player and was a well known frequent guest at casinos from Michigan to Las Vegas. He loved his time up at his cabin in Minnesota where he loved to just “putz” around and being surrounded by his family. David was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend to all who knew him and will be greatly missed.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, Jan. 6, 2011 at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 638 N. Calumet Road, Chesterton, with Father James Meade officiating. Cremation will be performed by Heritage Crematory, Portage. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 5 from 2 to 8 p.m. at the Edmonds & Evans Funeral Home, 517 Broadway, Chesterton, with a wake service at 7:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Blessed Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity in David’s name at 509 W. Ridge Road, Gary, IN 46408.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.EE-FH.com

Posted 1/4/2011