Donald J. Palla, Sr., of Chesterton, Ind., formerly of East Chicago, Ind., passed away September 18, 2012.

Don was born to Jean (nee Choklus) and Nick J. Palla, Jr. on December 17, 1931, in East Chicago, Ind.

He is survived by his spouse of 62 years, Jeanette (nee Roberts), his five children Karen (Joseph) Kovach of Georgetown, Texas, Don, Jr. (Kathy) Palla of Monticello, Ill., Mark Palla of Dallas, Texas, Kathleen Palla of Chesterton, and Joe (Bob Dyer) of Chicago, Ill.

He is also survived by his grandchildren, Joe (Wendy) Kovach of Austin, Texas, Erica Kovach of Boston, Mass., Kaitlin Palla of West Lafayette, Ind., Ben Palla, of Chicago, Ill. and Matt Palla of Monticello, Ill., and one great-granddaughter, Christina Jo of Austin, Texas.

He is also survived by his brother, Richard Palla of Florida, sister-in-law Mary Ann (Edward) Muskoski of Munster, Ind. and brother-in-law Frank Podkul of East Chicago, Ind., Marie Herbert, Aunt, of California, and many cousins, nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Jean and Nick Palla, his sister Jean Podkul, his sister Lorraine Bork and brother-in-law Bill Bork.

Don attended Roosevelt High School in East Chicago where he met the love of his life, Jeanette and his best friend, Tom Murray.

After graduation Don enlisted in the Air Force and served in the Korean War. After service, Don earned his undergraduate degree from Indiana University, and his masters degree from Roosevelt University. He taught for many years at East Chicago Washington High School and East Chicago Central High School. He touched the lives of over 10,000 students over the years.

Don lived for his children, grandchildren, and his great-granddaughter. He was at his happiest when watching his grandchildren swim, play basketball, play football and going on family vacations.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 21, from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Edmonds & Evans Funeral Home, 517 Broadway, Chesterton, Ind. There will be a Prayer Service officiated by Rev. Robert Gehring at 3:00 p.m. on Friday.

Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, September 22, at 10:00 a.m. directly at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 638 N. Calumet Rd., Chesterton, Ind., with Rev. James Meade and Rev. Robert Gehring officiating.

Memorials in Donald’s name may be made to The University of Chicago RESCUE Fund.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.ee-fh.com

Posted 9/20/2012