John T. "Ripper" Supanik

John T. (Ripper) Supanik, 77, of La Porte, Indiana passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, March 26, 2021.

John was born February 13, 1944, in La Porte, Indiana to the late John and Mary (Szawara) Supanik.

Until his retirement, John was the owner of “John’s Place” a tavern which was started by his parents when was just a child.  Ripper served his country proudly as a Vietnam Veteran. He was larger than life with a heart to match and ALWAYS had a joke or story to share with friends, loved ones, and even strangers.

A lover of nature, John enjoyed taking drives through Kingsbury Fish and Wildlife Preserve though his favorite furry friends were his flying squirrels who enjoyed the sunflower seeds he put out every evening. He was a member of the V.F.W., the Chanter’s barbershop chorus, an avid fisherman, outdoorsman, reader, a computer person, and liked science. 

John is survived by his sister-in-law, Luella Anderson of La Porte, Indiana; two Godsons, David and Chris Darwin of La Porte, Indiana; a Goddaughter, Jana Darwin of La Porte, Indiana; and too many “SPECIAL” friends and family member to name them all.  He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, James “Jim” Supanik; and very special friends, Janet Lantz and Penny Kirkham.

Visitation will be from 9-11 a.m. Thursday, April 1, 2021, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, 1117 Indiana Avenue, La Porte, Indiana.

A graveside service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, April 1, 2021, with Deacon Chris Hawkins officiating and Military Honors at Pine Lake Cemetery. 

Please share prayers, condolences, and memories with the family at EsslingFuneralHome.com

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