Daniel A. DeLeon, age 77, of Lake Station, passed away on November 1, 2026. He was born on November 9, 1948, in Gary, Indiana, to the late Samuel and Petra DeLeon.

Dan proudly served his country in the United States Army before dedicating 33 years of service to the Gary Police Department, where he built a distinguished career in law enforcement. A respected officer known for his investigative skills, Dan received international news recognition for his work, and his work reformed laws around the insanity plea in the state of Indiana. He was also a proud founding member of the Fraternal Order of Police.

Outside of his career, Dan enjoyed life's simple pleasures. He was an avid Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears fan who loved cheering on his favorite teams. He also enjoyed fishing, traveling, and reading. Whether exploring new places, spending time with family, or enjoying a quiet day doing the things he loved, Dan was dedicated to finding the joy in life. He was a magnetic personality that could always find a joke or a smile; when he wanted to laugh (which was always), he made sure the whole room laughed with him.

Above all, Dan's greatest pride and joy was his family. He was a devoted husband, loving father, and cherished grandfather and great-grandfather. His family meant everything to him, and he treasured the time they spent together. He made sure his family saw the world and supported their dreams whenever possible, acting as a pivotal pillar in each of their lives. The love he shared with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren will remain a lasting part of his legacy.

Dan is survived by his beloved wife, Hortencia DeLeon; his children, Daniel DeLeon, Maria (Bob) Hughes, Diana (Dennis) Ward, Rebecca (Francisco) Ochoa, and Ruben DeLeon; his grandchildren, Leah (Keith) Vanbuskirk, Cesar (Emmalee Colwell) DeLeon, Andrew Brewer, Haley Brewer, Lorena (Michael) Ochoa-Thomas, Noah Hughes, Nicholas (Courtney) DeLeon, and Ana (J.T.) Minor; his great-grandchildren, Laycee and Marshall Vanbuskirk; and his brother, Benjamin (Blanca) DeLeon.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Petra DeLeon; and his sister, Linda (Ray) Clemans.

Memorial visitation for Dan will be held on Friday, November 6, 2026, from 2:00 pm until 6:00 pm at Rees Funeral Home, Hobart Chapel, 600 West Old Ridge Road, Hobart, Indiana. A memorial service will take place at 6:00 pm. Flowers can be sent to Rees Funeral Home.

For more information, please call (219) 942-2109. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.