Mark Stephen Stanczak

Mark was born on November 16, 1956, to Stephen and Josephine Stanczak (nee Jasek) of Griffith, IN, and he married Susan Morgan on June 19, 2015. He is preceded in death by his parents and his wife.

Mark is survived by his daughter, Laura Stanczak, of Crown Point, IN; his sister, Mary Stanczak of Hudsonville, MI; his sister, Geralyn Stanczak Smith (Randy) of Naperville, IL; Geralyn and Randy’s child, Bennett Smith of Chicago, IL; and many cousins throughout the area and across the country.

Mark lived a life defined by kindness, simple pleasures, and an unwavering devotion to his family and his dogs.

A proud graduate of Griffith High School, Mark was a man of many skills who took pride in a job well done. In his younger years, he spent time working in the mills and foundries of Northwest Indiana. He later brought his handyman skills, as well as his dedication, to Sherwood Lake Apartments in Schererville, where he served his community for many years as a painter and a maintenance man, always ready to lend a helping hand. He had a soft spot for elderly residents and could often be found providing them additional assistance and a kind word. He brought that same kindness and friendliness to his neighborhood of Stonebrook, where his neighbors and friends were accustomed to seeing him walk his dog - often referring to him as “Sprocket’s Dad.”

When he wasn’t working, Mark could often be found outdoors. He was an avid fisherman who found peace on the water, always looking for the next great catch on Three Mile Lake in Michigan. He treasured his time outdoors, tromping through the woods with his buddy, Jim, and the dogs, or walking through the neighborhood with Beth, Winnie and Sprocket. He poured his time and care into his garden, cultivating life and enjoying the quiet rhythm of nature, and fostering a love of gardening in his daughter. His yard was a sanctuary where he loved feeding the birds and watching the lively antics of the squirrels.

Above all, Mark’s heart belonged to his family. He was a deeply proud and loving father to his daughter, Laura, who was the absolute joy of his life. He passed away peacefully in his sleep with his most faithful companion, his dog, Sprocket, by his side.

Mark’s warmth, his quiet strength, and his love for life's simple joys will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 23, 2027, from 1:00 – 5:00 pm at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 8178 Cline Avenue, Crown Point, IN. A private interment will be held for family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Humane Indiana Shelter and Adoption Center (https://www.humaneindiana.org/donate) in honor of his love for Sprocket and his many other pups over the years.

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