Carl “C.R.” Sackman, 76 of Wanatah, passed away Saturday, March 21, 2026. He was born April 12, 1949, in Gary, IN to the late Carl E. and Margaret (Koehler) Sackman. C.R. proudly served in the United States Army, before making his career as a mechanic with Bethlehem Steel. He was passionate about being a mechanic, and he loved working on his cars, and riding motorcycles. C.R. was a proud member of Harley Owners Group (HOG) and he enjoyed going on runs with the other riders. He was also a Free Mason with the Valparaiso Lodge and a member of the American Legion in Union Mills. C.R. liked going fishing, and taking long rides in the country with his wife, just as an excuse to be on his motorcycle. He will be remembered for his spontaneous nature, good sense of humor, and tendency to be a jokester. C.R. will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
On July 10, 2013, C.R. married Vanessa Cervantes, who survives, along with his daughter, Crystal (Brad) Sackman Duvall; stepsons: Devon (Liz) Cervantes and Tommy (Stacey) Steindler; stepdaughter, Nikki (Bob) Spencer; granddaughter, Megan (Alex) Strohmeyer; sister, Virginia (Gale) Paxon; and his beloved dog, Dexter.
A visitation will be held on Sunday, March 29, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Wanatah Funeral Chapel, 309 N. Main Street, Wanatah, with a funeral service beginning at 4:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Harley Owners Group (HOG), checks made payable to Kersting’s.
