Milton W. Hope, age 57, of Dyer, was called home on the evening of June 2, 2021.  He fought a long battle to live life to the fullest while struggling with a serious heart condition.  He was given extra years through a life-saving LVAD heart pump.  He never let it slow him down.  He enjoyed gardening, cooking, traveling, and even roller coasters! ... for which his doctors were understandably concerned.  He especially loved spending time with family, as much as their busy lives would allow. He was a lover of live music, from concerts to operas, to performing as a live musician himself for most of his adult life.  His soulful voice touched many hearts and drew a crowd. He was truly loved by many and he loved deeply in return.  His heart was struggling, but his love ran deep and true.  A favorite quote of his: "A heart is not judged by how much you love; but by how much you are loved by others" ― L. Frank Baum, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz

He is survived by his fiancée of 11 years, Nancy Broderick-Scalzitti; sons, Bryant (Amber) Hope of Valparaiso, IN,  Milton Wayne Hope II, Pleasant Lake, IN, Samuel Scalzitti, Dyer, IN; daughters, Katie Marie Hope, Kendallville, IN and Katelynn Broderick, Chesterton; grandchildren, Zachary, Kyle, Noah, Andrew, Natalia, Nicklas, Michael, Dakota, and Jessetta; sisters, Carolyn Scott, Paxton, IN, Theresa (Mark Cutrel) Knight, South Haven, IN; sister-in-law, Judy Hope, Valparaiso, IN; uncle, Harlan (Judy) Hope, KY; Aunts, Velma Jones, Flossie West, and Elizabeth Sublett, all of KY; many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Morton Ray Hope, Sr. and Martine Hope; brother, Morton Ray Hope, Jr; sisters, Sally Randolph and Debra Kay Hope; brothers-in-law, Bill Randolph and Tom Scott.

There will be visitation for Milton on Tuesday, June 8, 2021 from 10:00 -11:00 a.m. with an 11:00 a.m. service at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave., Portage with Rev. Ted Mauch, officiating.  Services will conclude at the funeral home with cremation to follow at a later time. Please call (219)762-3013 for additional information.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are preferred to Milton's GoFundMe for funeral expenses.  To make a contribution, please click here .