Jerome C. Franciski

.Jerome C. Franciski, 77, of Whiting, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 12, 2026 at his residence. He is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Sandra (nee Kowalczyk); loving father of Jeff (Cris) Franciski, Elaine (Bobby) Stephan, Michelle (Sean) Asbridge and Jennifer (Mark) Koval; adoring grandfather of Andrea, Landon, Laylah and Paige; cherished brother of Michele (late Dan) Mach, Thomas (Pammy) Franciski and the late Timothy (Diane) Franciski; dear uncle to many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at 8:00p.m. at the Baran Funeral Home, 1235-119th St., Whiting, with the Rev. James Dvorscak, officiating; cremation to follow; visitation at the funeral home on Tuesday from 4:00p.m. to time of services. Expressions of sympathy may be shared on-line at www.baranfh.com

Jerry Franciski was born on April 4, 1948 to Chester and Irene (Chiluski) Franciski. He was a lifelong resident of the Whiting-Robertsdale Community and was a graduate of George Rogers Clark High School, Class of 1966. Following graduation, he entered the United States Army, was a veteran to the Vietnam Conflict and was a member of the American Legion, Post 168. He was a retiree of the Hammond Police Department, attaining the rank of sergeant, with a service of 37 years and served as the bailiff to the Hammond City Court for 14 years. He was past president of the Hammond F.O.P. Lodge 51and was a member of the Roosevelt Club, American Slovak Club and the F&AM Lodge 569. He was the former owner of “Jerome C’s” Tavern and was an avid fisherman. He was a Chicago White Sox, Black Hawks and Bears fan and enjoyed the occasional trip to the casino. Devoted to his family, Jerome will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital or the St. Jude Children’s Hospital, would be appreciated. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jerome C. Franciski, please visit our floral store.