David Santana

David Santana, age 56, of East Chicago, Indiana, was born on May 1, 1967, and passed away on January 24, 2024. David grew up in Hammond, IN (Hessville area), a community he considered to be his second home. David attended Morton Senior High School and made many friends that he considered his “second family”. After high school, David went on to work for the Woodmar Country Club, where he found his passion for cooking. Although he never became a chef, he had the pleasure of making really good meals for his family and friends. Those who knew David, would describe him as funny, kind, generous, strong minded and compassionate. David worked hard in life and played even harder. He loved his only daughter, Illiana Santana and would always speak kindly of her. He was most proud to be a grandfather to his only grand-daughter, Katana Clark (10 yrs. old).

 David was the second child of four, born to Eleanor and Juan Santana, who sadly left his life on October 17, 1978, originally from Hammond, IN. He cherished his family more than life itself and they cherished him more. His life wasn’t always easy, but he always had a smile on his face and loved listening to Salsa music. He was full of life and enjoyed his time with his big brother, Johnny and little sister, Anita.
 Anytime David had a chance to take a long car drive up north, he enjoyed his time with his little sister, Mary and his nieces, Ellie and Madelyne. David was a peaceful man, pleasant to be with, full of advice and always filled the room with laughter, jokes and good old fashion fun. 

Surviving is his brother, Johnny Santana of Chesterton, IN; his sisters, Mary H. Santana of Round Lake, IL; and Anita Santana of Kansas City, MO; his daughter Illiana Lissette Santana of Lansing. IL and grand-daughter, Katana Clark.  He was an adored uncle to his nephews and nieces, Natalie Suzanne Turcotte, Steven Ray Santana, Rachel Eleanor Danapas, Joshua Santana, Sarah Lapinne, Nathaniel Steven Maldonado, Carissa Eleanor Maldonado, Isaiah Jamie Maldonado, Eleanor Celia Escobedo and Madelyne Celine Escobedo. David was regarded by many of his dear friends and extended Lebron & Santos family.

A special thank you to the Perez family for helping raise David and his siblings as children. David is preceded in death by his father and mother, Juan & Eleanor Paloma Santana (both deceased October 17, 1978).  

A Memorial Gathering will be from 5:00pm to 8:00pm, Thursday, February 1, 2024, with refreshments at the Acevez Funeral Home, 4918 Magoun Ave., East Chicago, IN 46312.

A Prayer service will begin at 6pm with Pastor Lloyd Collar officiating.

Cremation arrangements will be managed by the Acevez Funeral & Crematory, (219) 398-1418. Donations will be welcomed to cover funeral cost and flowers can be sent directly to the Acevez Funeral Home.