Eugene John Burkat Jr., age 69, of Hobart, passed away on September 1, 2015. He was born on November 7, 1945 in East Chicago, Indiana to the late Eugene and Catherine Burkat. Gene proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus St. Thomas Council #1347 and Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church. Gene was very active in Alcoholics Anonymous and recently celebrated 39 years of sobriety.

Gene is survived by his wife: Wanda; daughters: Caroline (Kevin) English, Michelle Burkat; step daughter: Laura (Jack) Chatt; step sons: Tracy (Debbie) Sandoval, Walter (Glenda) Sandoval, Dustin (Jennifer) Sandoval, Miguel Altieri; sisters: Judy(Ken) Darrow, Cindy Kula; brother-in-law: Jerry Chalko; 17 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren.

Eugene is preceded in death by his parents: Eugene and Catherine Burkat; sister: Joanne Chalko; brother-in-law: Jerry Kula. Memorial contributions in Gene's name may be made to the Carmelite Home For Girls, 4840 Grasselli Ave, East Chicago, IN 46312.

A Memorial Mass for Gene will take place at 10:00 AM on Thursday, September 17, 2015 directly at Assumption BVM Catholic Church, 3530 Illinois Street, Hobart with Fr. Lourdu Pasala officiating. Memorial visitation will take place at church on Thursday from 9:00 am until the time of service with a Knights of Columbus service at 9:30 am. For more information, please call (219) 942-2109. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.