Emil F. Cornejo, Sr.

Emil was born on April 8, 1928 in Joliet, IL to Francisca and Jose Cornejo. He was married to the love of his life, Mary A. (Orozco) Cornejo, for 44 years. As a child, Emil made a name for himself by earning the titles of Marble Champion and Horseshoe Champion in local tournaments. He was a graduate of East Chicago Washington High School ('46), and proudly enlisted in the U.S. Army during the Korean War in the 153rd Port Transportation Company, earning the Korean Service Medal with 3 Bronze Stars and the United Nations Service Medal. He was an active member of the American Legion Post 66 for 23 years.

Emil was a Foreman at the Inland Steel 80" Hot Strip Mill before retiring at the age of 57. Emil was known for his passion for reading, captivating storytelling abilities, love for travel (Las Vegas 96 times), his exceptional dancing skills and, most importantly, his role as a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Emil's legacy is one of resilience, dedication, and loving that will forever be cherished by those who knew him.

Emil is survived by his sisters, Victoria Wilhelm and Marge Delgado; his children, Emil Cornejo, Jr., Steven (Deborah) Cornejo, Laura Cornejo, Ric Cornejo, Gina (Glenn) Maglish, and Monica (Oscar) Flores; his granddaughters, Brittany Maglish and Isabella (Harrison) Maglish Maginn; and many nieces and nephews.

Emil is preceded in death by his loving wife, Mary; his brothers, Anthony, Mike, and Johnny; and his sister, Carmen.

A visitation for Emil will be held Wednesday, December 11, 2024 from 11:00 am until the time of the service at 1:00 pm at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 8178 Cline Avenue, Crown Point, IN 46307. Burial will follow at Chapel Lawn Veterans Garden.

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