Dino Del Rio Sr., 89, of Valparaiso, IN, passed away on February 13, 2025. He was born on July 25, 1935, to Domenick and Domenica Del Rio in Chicago, IL.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 67 years, Kathleen Del Rio; his daughters, Dawn Del Rio (Phil Matsheza) and Donna (Justin) Biggs; grandchildren, Caitlyn (Alex) Vanderstar, Makenzie and Ella D’Elia, Mary and Fraser Biggs; and great-grandson, Ivan Vanderstar.
Dino had fond memories of being raised in Roseland, IL, and attending Chicago Vocational High School. He served in the United States Army and worked in the drafting department at the Redstone Arsenal, contributing to projects such as the Redstone rocket. Following his military service, Dino became a salesman for Bearing Headquarters, where he worked for many years until his retirement.
In retirement, Dino found joy in volunteering for Meals on Wheels, delivering food weekly to those in need. He had a deep love for animals, adopting and caring for many throughout his life. Dino also earned his pilot’s license and enjoyed aviation, space exploration, being near the water, and traveling the world. Above all, Dino prioritized caring for his family and cherished the time spent together.
Dino was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Dolores Schapendonk, and his son Dino Del Rio Jr.
A private remembrance will be held for the family at a later date. The family extends special thanks to the staff at Brookdale Memory Care for their love and care, and to Traditions Health Hospice for the comfort provided in his final days.
