Stephen J.  Caco

Munster, IN

Stephen J. Caco, a 90-year-old resident of Munster, Indiana passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, December 8, 2024 surrounded by his loving children. He is survived by his sons, James J. (Donna) Caco, William K. Caco, Thomas D. Caco and David P. Caco; his daughter, Melissa A. Caco; and two grandchildren, Amanda (Jay) Borkowski-Zink and Christopher J. Borkowski.

Stephen’s life began on June 3, 1934, in Whiting, Indiana to Julius and Sophie (nee Cernota) Caco. He graduated from Whiting High School in 1951 and then enlisted in the Great Lakes Naval Training Center, where he was appointed as a Company Clerk. During his time there, he had the privilege of traveling to Japan and crossing the Equator.  After his military service, Steve embarked on a career at Sinclair Oil Refinery, where he met his future wife, Elaine Claire Foster. Their love story blossomed, and they tied the knot on October 10, 1959. Together, they built a family and raised five children.

In addition to his family, Steve was an active member of various community organizations. He dedicated over 50 years of his life to the Knights of Columbus, serving as the Treasurer for the Colombian Club. He was also an active member of the Whiting Slovak Club, showcasing his commitment to fostering a sense of community and belonging.  Steve and Elaine’s family relocated from Whiting, Indiana to South Holland, Illinois where they continued to be involved in local community organizations. Their legacy of love, service, and community engagement will continue to inspire generations to come.

Steve, a retired Design Supervisor at American Maize-Products Company, belonged to St. Jude Parish. He enjoyed bowling on Wednesdays and Fridays and playing on a softball team. In the winter of 1990, Steve and his wife, Elaine, moved to Munster, Indiana where they became involved with St. Thomas More Church. Steve continued bowling and later transitioned to golfing, which he cherished until October 2024.

After Elaine’s passing in May 2010 after a 50-year marriage, Steve’s children and two grandchildren emotionally supported him. Steve remained an active and caring member of his community, always ready to lend a helping hand and maintain relationships with friends and neighbors.

In September 2024, he was honored as a Veteran by The Honor Flight Northeast Indiana Hub. They flew him and other Veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit the war memorials.  Despite turning 90 ½, Steve remained an active and involved member of the Munster community.

He will be missed every day, yet the thought of him dancing in the stars with mom warms our hearts.

Visitation will be on Friday, December 20, 2024 at Kish Funeral Home 10000 Calumet Ave.  (next to Fitness Pointe) Munster, IN from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM with a prayer service at 4:30 PM with the Abraham Lincoln Assembly 235 standing Honor Guard from 6:00 PM until the Hammond Unity Council 726 Knights of Columbus 7:00 PM service and again on Saturday, at the church from 9:30 AM until the 10:00 AM Mass.

​A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at 10:00 AM at St. Thomas More Church 8501 Calumet Ave. Munster, IN with Fr. Michael Yadron officiating.  Interment will follow with Military Honors Calumet Park Cemetery Merrillville, IN.

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