James Sandilla, age 79, of Hobart, passed away Tuesday, October 16, 2018 at VNA Hospice in Valparaiso.  He was born on August 3, 1939 in Gary, Indiana to the late Anthony A. and Elizabeth (nee Peer) Sandilla. James graduated in 1959 and retired after 47 yrs. as an employee of the Norfolk and Southern Railway.  He will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.

He is survived by his two sons, Rick (Tina) Sandilla of Valparaiso and Adam Sandilla of Hobart; three daughters, Brigitte  (Jan) Bonner of Hobart, Holly (Paul) Luedtke of Valparaiso, and Kim (Mark) Mathis of Portage; 11 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; sister in law, Delores Sandilla  and several nieces, nephews and other loving family members and friends.

James was preceded in death by his wife, Sandra Sandilla; his parents; sister, Toby Sandilla and three brothers, Charles, Anthony "Butch" and Joseph Sandilla.

In lieu of flowers donations of blood to your local blood bank or donations to VNA Hospice would be appreciated.

Visitation for James will be Friday, October 19, 2018 at Rees Funeral Home, Hobart Chapel, 600 W. Old Ridge Rd., Hobart, from 11:00 a.m. with a 2:00 p.m. service.  Cremation will follow.  Please call (219) 942-2109 or go online at www.reesfuneralhomes.com .