Jack Wayne Fantin

Jack Wayne Fantin, age 79, passed away February 27, 2025, at home after a three year battle with cancer.

Jack was born on April 28, 1945 to Lester A. Fantin and Helen J. (Koves) Fantin.

He graduated from Merrillville High School Class of 1963. Fresh off the farm, he joined the US Army. He was a Vietnam Era Veteran, having served from 1964 to 1966 and later from 1966 to 1970 in the Army Reserve. He attended college on the GI Bill in Arkansas and later California.

Jack had a strong work ethic as a child. He sold seeds door to door and in his teenage years he often farmed and worked for his father's shoe store and sign company in La Porte. He was employed for 35 years as a truck driver for US Steel, Gary Works, Sheet and Tin department and was a member of Local 1066.

Jack was an enthusiastic car collector and enjoyed going to car shows and racing at US 30 Dragstrip. In 1967, he won Grand Champion at the strip and never missed a Sunday. He also enjoyed fishing and hunting with his dog Rebel.

Jack was a skilled taxidermist often mounting animals free of charge for family and friends. Some of his other hobbies included collecting guns, knives and coins. He was an avid gardener and loved animals. Jack enjoyed raising ferrets, ducks, geese, chickens, a tarantula, and a crow, named Goblin. Many of his birds won accolades at local 4-H fairs.

On February 5, 1972, he married Patricia L. Hanaway. They shared 53 years together until his passing.

He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, often hosting corn roasts and fourth of July parties with fireworks and bonfires.

Jack is preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Helen; brother, Jack L. "Big Jack" Fantin; sister, Sandra Fantin; niece, Kimm; and nephew, Gregory.

He is survived by his loving wife, Patricia; their three children, Timothy, Jaime, and Michael; granddaughter, Alyssa; and sister Jill Fantin.

Private funeral services with military honors will be conducted, followed by burial at Woodlawn Cemetery, Walkerton, Indiana.

Condolences may be shared with the family on www.cutlercares.com.