Edward Kielbasa

He was born in the Harbor Area of East Chicago, IN, to the late Thomas and Mary Kielbasa.

Edward shared 66 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Darlene Kielbasa. He was a proud, devoted, and generous father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, cherishing every moment spent with his family. He is survived by his eight children, Mary Davila; Edward, Jr. (Sherri) Kielbasa; Lori Seljan; Michael (Donna) Kielbasa; Susie McDonald; Michelle Wagner; Jeff (Cindy) Kielbasa; and Kimberly (Bryan) Kasper. He also leaves behind 22 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, with one more expected in September, and his loving sister, Bernie Mahoney.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Mary Kielbasa; his special grandson, Edward Thomas Kielbasa, III; his parents-in-law, Frances and Walter Dittrich; his sister, Sylvia Kielbasa; and his sons-in-law, Domingo Davila and Mark Wagner.

Edward loved his family deeply and unconditionally. He worked for Burger King and Walgreens and was a proud veteran of the United States Navy, often sharing stories of his time in service. An avid fisherman and hunter, Edward took great pride in teaching his children and grandchildren these lifelong skills.

He was actively involved in youth sports, dedicating nearly 40 years as a referee and umpire, continuing until the remarkable age of 86. Edward found joy in life’s simple pleasures, including feeding squirrels, rabbits, and birds; reading the NWI Times; completing crossword puzzles; watching Jeopardy! and MeTV; golfing; and playing cribbage and pool. He especially loved cooking for his family, whether it was pancakes and omelets for breakfast or hosting fish fries with his fresh catch, and enjoyed drinking black coffee. He was also a devoted fan who loved rooting for the Chicago White Sox.

Edward and Darlene treasured their anniversary trips to Branson, MO, and he cherished every opportunity to spend time with his family, especially babysitting his grandchildren. A true people person, Edward had a gift for conversation, always ready with a joke or a bit of teasing, and he never met a stranger.

Edward will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

Visitation will be held at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 8178 Cline Avenue, Crown Point, IN 46307, on April 30, 2026, from 2:00 to 6:00 pm, with military honors taking place at the beginning of the visitation at 2:00 pm. A funeral service will take place during the visitation at 5:00 pm.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ChapelLawnFunerals.com for the Kielbasa family.