Ellis Gene Dyer, age 57 of Porter, Ind., passed away unexpectedly on August 1, 2011.

He was born on January 15, 1954 in Willard, Ohio to Robert Dyer and Tressie (Minix) Jancozich Christman, who preceded him in death.

On April 21, 2001 he married the love of his life, Susan (Gilson) Dyer, who survives, of Porter.

He is also survived by sons, Tony (Lorra) Dyer of Wheatfield; Chris (Greta) Dyer of Texas; Josh Dyer of Chesterton, daughters, Angela (Daniel) Welch of Washington; and Courtney Dyer of Chesterton; step-son, Jon Almutis of Chesterton; step-daughters, Susan (David) Mardars of North Judson, Ind.; Megan Almutis of Valparaiso; and Sarah Almutis of Merrillville; a sister whom he called “Cookie”, Gloria Stone (Michael LeGrand) of Chesterton and thirteen grandchildren and many nieces and nephews and cousins. Ellis is preceded in death by two sisters, Wilma Cullers and Cleda McIlvain.

Ellis worked at Arcelormittal Steel in Burns Harbor. He was a member of the American Legion in South Haven and a member of the VFW. He was a 12 year member of the Indiana Army National Guard.

Ellis loved life and loved sharing and spending time with his family and friends as much as he could. “El” was a wonderful, caring, loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend to all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.

Ellis was a very hard working man and loved his garden, he would do anything for anyone and would even give the shirt off his back if someone needed it.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, August 4, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. at Edmonds & Evans Funeral Home 517 Broadway, Chesterton, Ind.

Cremation will take place at Heritage Crematory, Portage, with burial of ashes at McCool Cemetery at a later date. Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 4, 2011 from 3:00 p.m. until time of service at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the family.

Online condolences to the family may be made at www.ee-fh.com

Posted 8/2/2011