Richard “Dick” Cantrell, formerly of Hammond and East Chicago, Indiana, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home on December 14, 2025, surrounded by the family he loved so deeply. He was born on May 19, 1938, in East Chicago, Indiana, and lived a life defined by quiet strength, unwavering dedication, and a generous heart.

Richard shared 65 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Jeanette (Mikler) Cantrell. Their life together was built on love, respect, hard work, and devotion to family. Through every season of life, Richard’s greatest pride and joy was the family they created together.

He attended East Chicago Washington High School and went on to earn his degree in Electrical Engineering from Purdue University Calumet. Richard devoted 60 years of his life to Bethlehem Steel, where he worked with pride and purpose as an electrical engineer, retiring at the age of 83. He was also a joint owner of Hoosier Flower Shop in Whiting, Indiana, for 45 years—a place that reflected his steady commitment, strong values, and connection to the community he cared about so much.

After long days of work, Richard found happiness in coming home—especially to his loyal dog, Susie, who greeted him faithfully and brought him comfort and companionship. He was the kind of man who was always ready to help a neighbor, fix what was broken, or simply be there when someone needed him. Richard found great peace at his son’s summer home at the lake, where he loved spending time with family, enjoying the quiet moments, and making memories that will be treasured forever.

Above all else, Richard was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His love was steady, his presence reassuring, and his guidance constant. He taught by example—through his work ethic, his kindness, and the way he showed up for his family every single day.

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Jeanette Cantrell (Mikler); his children, Debra (Edward) Pilipow, Dawn (Bill) Quillin, and Richard (Rochelle) Cantrell; his grandchildren, Edward (Dawn) Pilipow, Eric (Jenna) Pilipow, Ryan (Isabella) Pilipow, Tyler (Sarah) Quillin, Kyle (Cassie) Quillin, Caden Cantrell, Camdyn Cantrell, and Kian Cantrell; and his treasured great-grandchildren, River, Felix, Nelly, Ursula, and Silvia Pilipow, and Dawson and Layla Quillin. He is also survived by his brother, Robert (Barbara) Cantrell; his brother-in-law, Fred (Annie) Mikler; and several nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Nellie Cantrell, and his in-laws, Philip and Jenny Mikler.

Richard will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his strong work ethic, and the deep love he had for his family. He appreciated life’s simple pleasures and found happiness in being surrounded by those he loved. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy of love, kindness, and devotion will live on through the generations he so proudly helped shape.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 19, 2025, at Kish Funeral Home, 10000 Calumet Avenue, Munster, Indiana, at 2:00 p.m., officiated by Fr. Edward Ondrako. Visitation will be held on Friday at the funeral home from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. Interment will be private.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to all who cared for Richard during the final months of his life. Your compassion, kindness, and support brought comfort not only to him, but to all who loved him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Heart-to-Heart Hospice Porter County in Richard’s memory.

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