Daniel "Danny" Richwalski

Daniel “Danny” Richwalski, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, passed away on December 21, 2024. Born on July 3, 1954 in East Chicago, Indiana. He is survived by his wife, Dorene, his loving daughter April (Tres) Eldridge, his grandson, Austin Eldridge, and son Mathew Richwalski. He was preceded in death by his parents Paul and Mary Ann Richwalski. 

Danny attended grade school at St. Stanislaus in East Chicago and graduated high school from Bishop Noll in 1972. He retired from Inland Steel where he was a pipe fitter/welder for 30 years. Following his retirement he worked for St. Casimir Church/School where the staff and children lovingly called him “Mr. Dan”. 

Danny had a passion for polka music which began early in life. His father had a Polka Band – the Paul Rich Orchestra. When he was old enough, he joined the band and played the trumpet, along with a number of other horns. He often talked about the many places they played, the guys he played with, and the great experiences he had. He also played with Calumet Sounds. Not only did he love playing, he also loved dancing a lively polka! He would often sit and listen to his father’s music on cassette tapes. Always tears of fond remembrances. 

Danny grew up a Notre Dame fan. He also loved the White Sox, Blackhawks, and Bears. He always said he was lucky to have lived to see all three of these teams win championships! He was often seen sporting shirts and sweatshirts of his favorite teams. 

Danny was an active member of the Hammond Mohawks, where he served in multiple positions over the years and made many life-long friends. He loved playing golf, fishing, planting his vegetable garden, working in the yard, cooking, eating at great restaurants and traveling. 

He loved his family and friends and he was always willing to lend a hand; whether it be rebuilding a deck, remodeling a bathroom, installing a gas line, changing a water heater…the list goes on and on. He could do almost anything, repair almost anything – a “jack of all trades” kind of guy. 

He was loved by many and will be dearly missed by all that knew him. 

A gathering of family and friends will be held Saturday, December 28th at Acevez Funeral Home, 4404 Cameron Ave. Hammond from 9am until time of Mass.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Casimir Church at 10am with Father Eduardo Malagon officiating.

A private Cremation will follow.

In lieu of flowers donations to local animal shelter or charity of your choice.