Julio Santos Jr.

Age 69, of Valparaiso passed away Monday, January 27, 2025. He was born in East Chicago, Indiana to the late Julio and Bonifacia (nee Santiago) Santos Sr.  He married his queen, Doris Celia at Holy Angels in Gary on August 27, 1977, and they spent 43 loving years together before her passing in 2020. He retired from Arcelor Mittal where he worked as a foreman. Julio demonstrated remarkable dedication to his family by hosting annual picnics for loved ones and friends. He selflessly cared for ailing family members. His artistic side was complemented by his enjoyment of gaming at the Blue-Chip Casino and fishing. He successfully renovated his own home and delighted in sharing stories of his youth. Though he had no children of his own, he demonstrated a paternal devotion to his sibling's children, caring for them as if they were his own.

Julio is survived by his two brothers, Edwin (Carolyn Baker) Santos and William (Susan) Santos; nieces and nephews, Melissa (James) Negron-Schilling, Michelle(Billy Johnson) Negron, Teresita (Delaun) Kirk, Carmenlita (Eriek) Nickson, Antionette Cardenas, Stacy Ross, Elizabeth (Angela) Negron- Haniford, Leissa (Chancie Thompson III) Pierson , Marisa (Christopher) Ikpoh, Christoper Baker, Michael Santos, Mary Santos, Christoper Santos and Gabriela Santos; two sisters-in-law, Milta and Diane Negron; numerous great and great-great nieces and nephew; brother in law, Richard Pagan and many other loving family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his queen, Doris Santos; his parents, siblings, Victor Negron, Maria Cardenas, Jorge Negron and Elva (Phillip) Pierson; brother-in-law, Joe Pagan and sister-in-law, Marie "Nena" Pagan.

In lieu of flowers donations to Julio's family would be appreciated.

A funeral service for Julio will be held Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 11:00 am at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave., Portage. Cremation will follow. Visitation will be held Friday, February 7, 2025, from 4:00- 8:00 pm and from 9:00 - 11:00 am on Saturday, February 8, 2025 also at  the funeral home. For more information please call (219)-762-3013. Online condolences can be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com