Joseph M. Cerda, age 84, of Portage and formerly of Gary passed away Sunday January 21, 2024, in his home.  He was born November 19, 1939, in Gary, Indiana to the late Lauro and Soccoro (Salas) Cerda. He was affectionately known as "Babe Joe" by his brothers and sisters and as "Jojo" by his cousin Amber.  Joseph retired as a steelworker from US Steel with thirty years of service. He enjoyed walking every day and was an avid sports fan.

He is survived by a brother Bobby Cerda of Hammond, and sister Sally Carrales of Portage; and many cousins and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Manual Cerda and Larry Cerda; and one sister, Susan Zacharzuk.

A Memorial Mass will be Celebrated Tuesday January 30, 2024 at 10:00 am at St. Bridget Catholic Church 107 Main Street Hobart, Indiana 46342. Burial of cremated remains will follow in Calumet Park Cemetery in Merrillville.