Stephen G. Drapac, age 96 of Hobart, IN, passed away peacefully in his home on Tuesday, June 29, 2021.

Stephen was born on August 11, 1924 in Whiting, IN to the late George and Anna Drapac.  He was a graduate of Hammond Tech High School, Class of 1942.  Stephen was a proud Navy Veteran and served during World War II on the USS Nashville CL43 as an electrician in the Pacific Theater.  After the war, Stephen worked as an electrician for Youngstown Sheet and Tube and ACME Steel.  Stephen married the love of his life, Pauline (nee Uskert) Drapac on April 29, 1950 and they spent 63 wonderful years together until her death in 2013.

Stephen was a faithful parishioner of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church for 63 years and volunteered in many roles at the church.  He had a passion for building and construction and built his family home.  Stephen provided for his family and served as Mr. Fix-it, repairing any item that was broken.  He loved to tell stories from his military service and was an avid reader and crossword puzzle solver.  Stephen also enjoyed hunting and making wine.  He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who will be deeply missed by all.

Stephen is survived by his children:  Pamela Drapac, Christine (Terrence) Zgorka, Thomas (Lynn) Drapac, Cynthia (Daniel Hirsch) Drapac, Mark (Sara) Drapac, James (Julie) Drapac, and Stephanie Drapac; brother: Joseph (Norma) Drapac; 15 grandchildren; and 2 great-grandchildren.

Stephen is preceded in death by his wife: Pauline; his parents George and Anna Drapac; and siblings: Eva McGregor, Ann Houck, Theresa Darnell, Martha Drapac, and Adam Drapac.

Family and friends may gather at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel (5341 Central Ave, Portage) on Friday, July 2, 2021 from 2:00-8:00 P.M.  A rosary service will take place at 6:00 P.M.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, July 3, 2021 at 1:00 P.M. from St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church (2447 Putnam Street, Lake Station).  Prayers will be said at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel at 12:15 P.M.  At rest: Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the The Epilepsy Foundation.  To make a memorial contribution in Stephen's name, please click here .