Modesto Q. Ricard, Jr., age 72, of Valparaiso, passed away Sunday, November 26, 2017 at home surrounded by his family. He was born on April 12, 1945 in Juncos, Puerto Rico to the late Modesto Ricard and Ramona Quinones. Modesto worked as a track foreman for EJ&E Railroad for 27 years until his retirement in 1991. He was devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend who will always be remembered for his benevolent nature and sense of humor. He would do anything to help a stranger in need. Modesto was a lifelong resident of Gary, Indiana who was very proud of his Puerto Rican heritage.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 17 years, Linda Ricard; children, Ivette (Dave) Sandlin, Modesto Ricard III, Felicita Ricard-Ruiz, and Carmen Junigen-Ricard; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; sisters, Flor Ricard-Robles and Yolanda Ricard.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Denise Jerry; brothers, Rico, Petey, Orlando and Oscar Ricard; one sister, Annie Ricard.

Burial of cremains will take place at  Calvary Cemetery in Portage on Friday, December 8, 2017 at 11:30am. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave., Portage. For more information, please call (219) 762-3013. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com .