Doris C. Santos, age 65, of Valparaiso, passed away Monday, February 3, 2020. She was born on August 23, 1954 in Gary, Indiana to the late Jose and Maria Pagan. On August 27, 1977, she married Julio Santos at Holy Angels Cathedral in Gary. Doris was very proud of her Latin heritage. She loved to dance Salsa, eat Spanish food and travel to Puerto Rico. She loved her family and friends and will always be remembered for her joyful disposition.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 47 years, Julio Santos; faithful yellow tabby cat, Chepo; brother, Richard Pagan; cousin, Elizabeth Lugo, who was like a sister; sisters-in-law, Elva Pierson, Milta Negron and Diane Negron; brothers-in-law, Edwin Santos, William (Dr. Susan) Santos. She also is preceded in death by her nephew Richard "Noodles" Pagan. She is also leaves behind her nieces & nephews: Sylvia Pimentel, Ruby Pagan, Jose Rodriguez, Jesus Pagan, Melissa Negron-Schilling, Michelle Negron-Ronkowski, Teresita Kirk, Carmelita Nickson, Antoinette Cardenas, Stacy Ross, Elizabeth Negron-Haniford, Leissa Pierson, Marisa Ikpoh, Michael Santos, Mary Santos, Christopher Santos, Gabriela Santos and many more, great nieces, great nephews and extended family members to cherish her memory. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Josie, Madelene and Blanca for the friendship and love they have shown Doris over the years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jose and Maria Pagan; brother, Joe Pagan; brothers-in-law, Victor Negron, Jorge Negron; sisters-in-law, Marie "Nena" Pagan and Maria Cardenas. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Doris' name may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, PO Box 1000 Dept 142, Memphis, TN 38101-9908.

A funeral service for Doris will take place Friday, February 14, 2020 at 11:00 am with Rev. Roque Meraz officiating at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave., Portage. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Portage. Visitation will be held Thursday, February 13, 2020 from 2:00 pm -8:00 pm at the funeral home.  For more information, please call (219) 762-3013. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com