Rafael G. Cortes, Sr.

Rafael Cortes, 75, of East Chicago, Indiana, passed away Friday, January 8, 2021.  He was born in Utuado, Puerto Rico to Manuel and Angela (Gonzales) Cortes on June 30, 1945.  On August 4, 1973 he married the love of his life, Beatriz Vega-Cortes.  In addition to his wife, he leaves two children to cherish his memories; Rafael “Juni” Cortes, Jr., and Aidaleen Cortes; four grandchildren, Deja Kerns, Ivelisse Cruz, Anjalise Rivas, Daniel A. Rivas, Jr. and grand fur-baby, Oreo; siblings, Nilsa (Ruben R.) Cortes, Hilda (Martin) Cruz, and Jesse (Rosie) Cortes.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Manuel and Angela Cortes; and brother, Fundador Cortes.  Rafael worked at Inland Steel for 30 years until his retirement in 1999.  He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather and dear friends.  The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 13, 2021 at the Ridgelawn Funeral Home, 4201 West Ridge Road, Gary, Indiana 46408 – 219 980-5555.  Funeral Services will follow at 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home.  Because of Covid-19 precautions, the funeral home is limiting guests to 50 people.  Masks and Social Distancing is required.  Rafael will be dearly missed by his loving family and dear friends.

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