Mary Messer Obituary
We announce the death of Mary Messer of Portage, Indiana, born in Gary, Indiana, who passed away on October 10, 2026, at the age of 87. Mary will be remembered by family members, friends, and others whose lives were connected in meaningful ways. Leave a sympathy message to the family on the memorial page of Mary Messer to pay them a last tribute.
She was predeceased by: her parents, Bernardo Najar and Mary Najar (Gregor); her siblings, Bernadine, Mitchell, Bernard and Catherine; and her significant other Raymond Messer.
She is survived by: her brother Joseph Najar (Kathy); her sisters-in-law, Patricia Najar (Bernard) and Kathy Najar (Mitchell); her nieces, Lorri Arroyo (Lucky), Diane Messer-King (Paul King) and Linda Eriks (Ray); her grandchildren, Misty Ishii (Michael), Michael Bilderback (Nicole), Valerie Spencer (Michael), Jeff Eriks (Dorica), Elizabeth Vugteveen (Steve), Alex Phillips (Mina) and Krystal Yambao (Eareen); her great great grandchildren, Hannah and Emily; and her pet Sumi.
A memorial gathering will be held on Thursday, October 29th 2026 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Rees Funeral Home Olson Chapel (5341 Central Ave, Portage, IN 46368). A memorial service will be held on Thursday, October 29th 2026 at 7:00 PM at the same location.
Donations can be made to Alzheimer's Association in memory of Cookie Messer.
