Sandy R. Muscara, 89, of DeMotte passed away peacefully at home on Friday, March 27, 2026. He was born May 8, 1936, in Weirton, WV to Henry E. & Jenny (Fasolo) Muscara, graduated from Follansbee High School, and served proudly with the U.S. Navy. Sandy made his career in the steel manufacturing industry. He began at National Steel for 11 years before transferring to Bethlehem Steel where he worked 26 years as a Foreman in the their “Skinpass” department.
On November 23, 1957 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Weirton he married Bertha “Dolly” Barlow who preceded him in death on February 21, 2023. Survivors include their children: Richard (Cheryl) Muscara of Chesterton, Teresa Howe of Hebron, Lisa (Thomas) Nash of Waxhaw, NC, Stephanie Leverich of Chesterton, 14 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and his sister, Joann (Chuck) Bugin of Weirton, WV. He was also preceded in death by 2 grandchildren: Carissa Bottos & Nathaniel Howe, and his brother, Nick Muscara.
A visitation will be held Thursday, April 2nd from 4 – 7 pm at Moeller Funeral Home, Valparaiso with a time of sharing beginning at 6:30 pm. Private burial will take place at Angelcrest Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to VNA Hospice of NWI or the Porter County Animal Shelter.
GUESTBOOK
Rick sorry to hear about your dad. He was a great customer of mine when I had Archies Auto Detail. My dad always enjoyed seeing him come in to have his car wash. They would talk about their mill days. My condolences and prayers for you and your family. I just saw him 2 months ago at the clinic while getting blood work. I was shocked he remembered me. -Gregory Howard (Archie) Howard
In tribute to my Dad, I will follow his example and live everyday to its fullest. His love and devotion to his family and friends, his wit and intelligence, his resourcefulness and generosity, his courage and tenacity in the face of unwelcome events; these characteristics only begin to describe this great man who guided me and protected me my whole life. I miss you terribly. You live on in my heart, forever. I will never forget you or the things you have taught me about life and living. I LOVE YOU!! - - -"Gonzalez-Gonzalez" -Teresa Howe
Sending our deepest sympathy to Sandy’s family. My husband and I knew him for many years from Bethlehem. We used to see him and Dolly around Valparaiso until they moved and sometimes see them at Broadway cafe and share a table. We were happy to reconnect with him on Facebook a few years ago. -Daniel and Linda Goldsworthy
My condolences and prayers for you Lisa and your family. I remember your father as a very witty, generous and loving man. It was always fun to visit your parents. -Megan P.
Hugs, prayers and positive thoughts for the Family and Friends of Sandy!!! An AMAZING individual who always shared a fun story and astute observations ... with a twinkle in the eyes 🙂 His dedication, care and love for his Family provides a role model for those of us remaining. He is at peace! Love... -Lamb and Kozenski Families
What can I say, Sandy was not only an amazing neighbor, but was like family to us.He always made you feel welcome and very special. We enjoyed hearing all the stories he loved to share. During the summer I would see Sandy sitting out in his garage and he would say, "Come over and sit down awhile" and then he would ask how you doing? And if you had your dog with you,(right away he'd get the treats out) He was such a kind, funny and loving person. He always made the best of every moment with you, and made you feel so special. I enjoyed cutting his hair once a month, and When I was done, he would look in the mirror and he would say, "Oh yeah, much better, you do a good job". And I would say, "Now you really look Italian you look handsome". Then we would sit and talk awhile longer before I'd leave. He always extended his time with you. My husband enjoyed helping him with questions. That Sandy would call to ask him about, and Sandy would say "How are you Michael my son"., But it was because he considered him as family, not just a neighbor. Once in awhile Mike would sometimes go watch a football game with him in the garage, and they would have a pizza together, And of course, Sandy loved a good cigar every so often. And what a time he had with that golf cart! Even giving the neighbors rides. He was just a one of a kind all around fun loving person to be around. He is now in perfect peace and will be greatly missed. We love you, Mr. Sandy, -Sandy Billy
