Darlene F. Gore (nee DeGard)

Age 78, formerly of Hammond, of Merrillville, Indiana, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Saturday, October 11, 2025.

She is survived by her dear love of 40 years, Walter Lesniak; loving son, Jason (Tracy) Gore, precious grandchildren; Cody (Brie) Gore and Chris Ruiz; great-grandchildren, Claire, Reid and Graham. Darlene was preceded in death by her parents, Francis and John DeGard; brothers, Joseph (late, Stella) DeGard and James (still living, Cindy) DeGard.

Darlene grew up in Hammond and graduated from Hammond Tech High School, Class of 1965. She was formerly affiliated with Amelia's Market and Cooking, later retired in Winfield. Darlene cherished spending time with her grandchildren and had a special love for shopping—especially purses.

Friends may visit with the family on Thursday, October 16, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Solan – Pruzin Funeral Home, 14 Kennedy Ave., Schererville, Indiana. Funeral will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Calumet Park Cemetery, Merrillville, IN.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: hopsicecalumet.org.

Darlene will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her.