Bernardo "BJ" Lugo

A bright spirit full of joy, humor, and heart, BJ lived a life surrounded by love and laughter. From an early age, BJ made it clear that his greatest ambition was to eat as much as possible — a goal he pursued with passion and a smile. His laughter was often sparked by Disney classics, teasing his siblings, and especially by catching his Tia Erica stealing his socks.

BJ found pride in watching his sisters grow into strong, empowered women. He was their biggest fan, their joyful champion. He also took great pride in his own accomplishments, including being a proud participant in the Special Olympics and a 2012 graduate of Hammond High School. Among his more personal milestones, he once joyfully devoured 20 cupcakes — a feat that brought him as much pride as any medal.

BJ taught those around him the true meaning of strength — the kind that comes from vulnerability, openness, and love. His life was a beautiful example of expressing emotions freely and living authentically.

He found joy in the simple pleasures: coloring, puzzles, running, and especially eating. He was a devoted fan of Spider-Man and all things Disney, and he cherished the time spent lovingly picking on his family. His favorite foods included mostaccioli, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, and bananas — always bananas.

BJ’s favorite color was red, and his favorite song was “Roll Out.” His sense of style was unmistakably his own — bold, joyful, and full of personality. He would want to be remembered as super silly, stylish, and filled with joy — and anyone who knew him would agree, that’s exactly who he was.

BJ was preceded in death by his cousins, Andrew Mata and Zariah Santana; as well as his Titi, Annette Shukitis.

He is survived by his loving mother, Lori Mata-Olavarria; sisters, Ana Mata, Alyssa (Maria Valeria) Mata, Alejandra (Jose) Quezada, Sonia Olavarria, and Sandra Olavarria; brothers, David Olavarria, Adrian (Erika) Flores, and Miguel (Gabriela) Flores; his beloved grandmother, Irma Mata (née Guerrero); and his adoring nieces and nephews, Drew, Noah, Adam, Rosie, Alison, and Amelia.

BJ’s vibrant presence will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who were blessed to know him. His legacy of joy, laughter, and unconditional love lives on in the hearts of his family and friends.

A visitation to honor BJ will take place on Sunday, April 27, 2025, 2:00 pm until 7:00 pm with a prayer service beginning at 6:00 pm at Kuiper Funeral Home, 9039 Kleinman Road, Highland, IN 46322. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow on Monday, April 28, 2025, with a visitation beginning at 10:00 am until the time of service at 11:00 am at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 5304 Hohman Avenue, Hammond, IN 46320.

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