Doris Jean Starastu (nee Gasparovic)

Doris Jean Starastu (nee Gasparovic) of Hammond, Indiana, age 88, passed away on Sunday, June 7, 2026. She was born in Hammond on June 23, 1937, to parents Fred and Mary Gasparovic.

Doris is survived by her daughter Karen (Thomas “Poncho”) Malloy and son, Richard Jr; sister-in-law, Eileen Schwanke; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and caring friends. Preceded in death by her parents, brother Fred, and her beloved husband of 61 years, Richard Sr., who passed away in 2018.

Doris graduated from Hammond High School, Class of 1955 and was an employee of State Farm Insurance, Munster office. She enjoyed attending her many high school reunions.

She was an active member of the Lincoln Street Christian Church in Highland and served as a Sunday School Teacher and the Loyal Workers Women’s Christian Ministry. Doris also looked forward to her monthly luncheons with her group of special “BUNCO” friends.

Doris was a loving wife, mother, and mother-in-law, and a caring and loyal friend.

A private family service will be held at Solan – Pruzin Funeral Home, 14 Kennedy Ave., Schererville, Indiana, with burial at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens, Schererville, per Dorris wishes.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be in Doris’s honor to the Riley House-Hospice.