David "Butch" Negrelli

David T. “Butch” Negrelli, age 85, of Hobart, Indiana, passed away peacefully, surrounded by love, on Sunday, March 1, 2026.

Butch leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and quiet tenderness. He was the kind of man who showed up — steady, dependable, and always willing to help anyone in need. His resilient work ethic and generous heart shaped the lives of many. Beneath his straightforward exterior was a man who truly wanted to make others happy. He could be stubborn — there was no denying it — but that grit and determination were woven into who he was. It was the same strength that helped him persevere and provide for those he loved.

David was born on May 14, 1940, to Tullio and Ella Negrelli. Though an only child, he grew up alongside cousins who were more like siblings, forming bonds that lasted a lifetime. He graduated from Edison High School in Gary, Indiana, with the Class of 1958.

On June 3, 1961, he married the love of his life, Patricia Zytko, in Lake Station. They shared over 49 years of marriage before her passing. Together they raised three children — Victoria, David, and Matthew — and built a home filled with creativity, constant projects, and cherished family gatherings, especially at Christmas time.

Following in his father’s footsteps, Butch developed a passion for working on cars, machines, and anything that needed fixing from a young age. He spent time at Ace Garage in Gary, the family towing business founded by his grandfather, father, and uncle. His love for cars never faded, and he restored many over the years, becoming a very familiar face at Hobart NAPA. He especially loved Indy cars and attended many races and time trials. You could almost always find him tinkering in a garage somewhere. He believed firmly that you had to keep moving and always help others, and if things got tough, he’d likely remind you to “suck it up, buttercup.”

He worked as a millwright and retired from Carpenter's Union Local #1043, proud of his trade and the life it provided for his family.

When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed simple pleasures — scenic drives, time at the Indiana Dunes, going out to eat, watching the Green Bay Packers, and walking his little white dog, Sheen. He had a quiet way of caring for others, often showing up with donuts, pie, or coffee cake just because — small gestures that meant more than he ever said out loud.

He leaves behind family and friends who will remember him in their own ways — his loving grandchildren, very special great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews, who will carry him forward through stories, lessons, and memories.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Tullio and Ella Negrelli; his beloved wife, Patricia Negrelli; his children, Victoria Verplancken, David Negrelli, and Matthew Negrelli; and his grandson, Angelo Negrelli.

We trust he has been welcomed home, reunited with those he loved, and is now at peace.

His legacy lives on in steady hands, generous hearts, and the quiet strength he instilled in those who loved him unconditionally.

Memorial contributions in Butch's name may be made to Dunes Hospice, 4711 Evans Ave. Valparaiso, IN 46383.

Memorial visitation for Butch will be held Tuesday, March 10, 2026, from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm at Rees Funeral Home, Hobart Chapel, 600 West Old Ridge Road, Hobart. A memorial service will take place at 12:00 pm at the funeral home. For more information, please call (219) 942-2109. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.