John C. Theis, Jr. age 85, passed away on Friday, January 2, 2026.

John is survived by his daughter, Mary Jane "MJ" (son in law, Jerry) Poracky; grandchildren: Thomas (Laura) Poracky and Kristen (Anthony) La Rocca; great grandchildren: Landon, Sydney and Sevastian. He was preceded in passing by his parents: John and Thelma Theis; son, John C. Theis III; wife, Rosemary (nee Mancino) Theis; sisters: Betty Jane Sheffield and AnnaBelle McMahon.

John retired from Inland Steel after 36 years of dedicated service in the Lime Department.  He was a member of United Steelworkers Union Local 1010. John enjoyed working on cars and enjoyed stock car racing at the Illiana Speedway he also enjoyed fishing and reading the daily paper front to back. John thoroughly enjoyed a good conversation and loved making people smile. During his last 7 months of life, John was able to live independently at Story Point Senior Living in Schererville, where he called it home, making many new friends. John's family wishes to thank all of those who cared for "Poppy".

A Funeral Service will take place on Friday, January 16, 2026, 1:00 PM at LaHayne Funeral Home located at 6955 Southeastern Avenue, Hammond, IN with Fr. Jeffrey Burton officiating.  Inurnment to follow at St. John-St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Hammond.  Friends are invited to visit with the family from 12:00 PM until time of service at 1:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to John's family.

Please come casual as John would've wanted.