Earl Gene McKinley

Earl Gene McKinley, 71, of Crown Point, passed away on May 13 at St. Anthony Hospice surrounded by his devoted wife and closest friends. Born on August 12, 1943, in Chicago, Illinois, Earl was the son of Earl McKinley and Georgette (Pindiak) McKinley Wheetley. He is survived by his loving wife Patricia (Peschke) and his two sons Keith (Fara) of Portsmouth, Rhode Island, Aaron of Las Vegas, Nevada, two granddaughters Gabrielle and Alexandra, brother-in-law Alvin L. Peschke, of Wakefield, Virginia, and his niece Ginny Peschke of Honolulu, Hawaii.

Earl proudly served in the U. S. Army during the Viet Nam war after graduating from East Chicago Roosevelt High School. Earl retired from the grocery store business with 25 years in management.

Earl will always be remembered for his friendly demeanor and his ability to make people laugh. He loved to play Texas Hold ‘Em and was an avid White Sox fan. Earl was extremely proud of his sons and their accomplishments. Earl’s best friend was his wife—they enjoyed life to its fullest.

Friends are invited to visit on Monday, May 18, at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 8178 South Cline Avenue, Schererville, from 4-8pm and attend the memorial service at 8pm. Pastor Jose Burgos, Jr.—high school friend of Earl’s sons—will be officiating.