Keith  “Bugsy” Lazarek, 56, of LaPorte, died at 3:30 p.m. January 5, 2009 at his residence. 

He was born November 10, 1952 in LaPorte, the son of Stanley and Victoria A. (Hayman) Lazarek. His father preceded him in death and his mother survives in LaPorte.

On July 26, 1980 in LaPorte, he married Victoria (Viki) M. Conklin who survives. 

He is also survived by one daughter, Stacy Lazarek of Dayton, Ohio; three brothers, Henry (Carol) Lazarek of Chesterton, twin brothers, Kenneth Lazarek of LaPorte and Richard (Lori) Lazarek of Fort Wayne. Also, one sister, Christine (Roger) Tomoske, of Three Oaks, Mich.; one nephew, Garland Lazarek of LaPorte; five nieces, Melissa Noveroski of LaPorte, Sarah Lazarek and Kaylie Lazarek, both of Ft. Wayne, Emily Lazarek, of Chesterton, Caralee Lazarek of Greensboro, N.C. and three aunts and several cousins.     

He is also preceded by one sister, Rita Lazarek and maternal and paternal grandparents.     

He was a retired electrician with IBEW Local #531. He was a graduate of LaPorte High School, Class of 1971. He served in the U.S. Army from 1973 to 1976 as a communications specialist attaining the rank of Sergeant. As a Corporal he was awarded the Soldier of the Month Award for exemplary service. He enjoyed football, baseball, music, golf, carving and woodworking. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and an usher. He was a  former member of the LaPorte Jaycees and the LaPorte American Legion Post #451. Keith was a generous person with a wonderful sense of humor. He enjoyed his family and friends and life.     

A Funeral Mass, Rev. Jerry Sroka and Chaplain Steve Laue officiating, will be at 10 a.m. Friday, January 9, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Interment will be at Pine Lake Cemetery, following the service. The LaPorte Honor Guard will conduct graveside services. 

Visitation will be from 2-8 p.m., with Rosary Service at 5 p.m. Thursday, January 8, at Essling Funeral Home and Friday 9-10 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.  

Memorial contributions may be made to the donor’s choice. 

Arrangements are being handled by Essling Funeral Home.

Posted 1/7/2009