Eugene G. Chalik

Eugene G. Chalik "Sweet Gene", 90, completed his cancer journey on Thursday September 26,2013, at home in Clive, Iowa. Gene is the son of John and Magdalena (Kleiter) Chalik Sr., born July 15, 1923 in Chicago, Illinois. Growing up in La Porte, Indiana, he worked in his family's business, American Rubber and Plastics, as the executive Vice President, to which he still wasn't sure at the age of 90, what that meant. All we knew is that he went to work everyday in the factory. Dad retired in 1985 at the age of 62. He served in WWll with the Army Air Corps for 37 months, which he fondly referred to as "the killer corps", working in the chemical warfare and aircraft supply divisions throughout Europe.

Upon returning to LaPorte, Gene met the love of his life, Mary Curtin. They were married for almost 62 years before she proceded him in death February 9, 2012. Gene and Mary are again, "together forever".

Always the life of the party, "Sweet Gene" upon retirement, learned how to play golf and garden, loved to travel with his best friend and bride, party with his supper club friends and neighbors, and was the center of attention at all family gatherings! Actually, all gatherings!! Dad was like an M&M, hard on the outside, but soft on the inside with a heart of gold. He never minced words, you always knew what was on his mind, and where you stood. Something he would say when asked for advice ..."you'll never know unless you try"

Gene is survived by his 4 daughters, Nicki Chalik of Chicago, IL, Toni Chalik of Glendale AZ, Randi (John) Stern of West Des Moines, IA, Marti (Chuck) Tobar of Indianapolis, IN; and 2 sons, Denny (Debbie) Chalik of West Des Moines, IA and Brian Chalik of LaPorte, IN; 10 grandchildren, Tracee (Jeff) Johnson, Tim, Amy, and Peter Chalik, Leslie, Greg, and Tommy Stern, Taylor, Samantha, and Meredith Tobar; and 3 great-grandchildren, Caleb, Brody and Makenna Johnson. He is preceded in death by his parents; his brother, John; and wife, Mary.

Gene's family would like to thank EVERYONE that was involved in Dad's life and care these last 2 years - Walnut Ridge Sr. Living Community, Methodist lnterventional Radiology, Mercy Cancer Center, Dr. Roscoe Morton, and his physician and friend, Dr. Richard Demming.

Sweet Gene will be missed but never forgotten!

Visitation will be at Essling Funeral Home, 1117 Indiana Ave, La Porte, Indiana on Saturday, October 12, 2013 from 9:30-11:3O am. In agreement with his wishes, a private family graveside service will be held at Pine Lake Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to be made to Above and Beyond Cancer, 1915 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50309, www.AboveAndBeyondCancer.org or to Meals on Wheels, 620 Boston Street, Suite 12, La Porte, IN 46350.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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