John Sakes, Age 72, of Hobart, IN passed away on November 16, 2013 at St. Mary's Medical Center surrounded by his family. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Anita (Skolak) Sakes, three daughters, Christine (William) McCollum of Hobart, Stephanie (Skipper) Cheesman of Greenwood, IN, and Roxanne (Andrew) Ramage of Springfield, IL, five grandchildren, Marissa McCollum, Hobart, Reagan Cheesman, Greenwood, IN and Jack, John Michael and Kate Ramage, Springfield, IL, loving brother and best friend Andrew (Frances) Sakes, Crown Point, Sister, Tulla Hayes, Las Vegas, NV, brother-in-laws John Skolak , Portage, Michael (Joyce) Skolak, Hobart, Rudy (Charlene) Skolak, Hobart and Tom (Kathy) Skolak, Lee's Summit, MO and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents William and Angeline Sakes. He graduated in 1959 from Froebel High School, Gary where he proudly played varsity basketball for the Froebel High School Blue Devils. He later played with his brother Andy for the Greek team, GOYA. He served in the U.S. Army Reserves from 1964-1969. He was the owner of Hoosier Movers and Hobart Furniture. He served on the Board of Directors of the Bank of Indiana, was appointed a Hobart Fire Commissioner, elected 2007 Hobart Business Leader of the Year, and was serving on the Hobart Re-Development Commission. He was a BIG Brickie Booster Club Supporter and supported all things Hobart. He loved to be with his golfing and McDonald's breakfast buddies. He was so loved by all who knew him and was the best husband, daddy and Papa anyone could have. He will be terribly missed.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 19, 2013 from 2-4pm and 6-8pm at Rees Funeral Home, 600 West Old Ridge Road, Hobart, IN. Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, November 20, 2013 at 10am at St. Joan of Arc Church, 200 East 78th Street, Merrillville, IN with Fr. Paul Quanz officiating. Interment at Hobart Cemetery.