Emily Anna Thorpe, 102, of Valparaiso passed away Saturday, June 14, 2025. She was born July 28, 1922, in Gary, Indiana to John & Anna Bukalski, graduated from Kouts High School and attended Gary Business College, and served proudly with the U.S. Navy during WW II stationed in New York City. She began her career at the Kingsbury Ordinance Plant during WW II, became a recorder for U.S. Steel Garyworks, then served as a long-distance telephone operator before starting her family. Emily enjoyed working seek-a-word and crossword puzzles, cheering on the Fighting Irish, Bears, and Cubs, winning Bunco and BINGO games at the senior center, and vanilla milkshakes. The bottomless bowl of dark chocolates beside her chair along with a wastebasket filled with the empty wrappers became a bit of a trademark for her. But it was the perpetual Friday visits to her hairdresser, impeccable nail care, and her mandatory eyebrow pencil that truly defined her.
On August 29, 1948, in Kouts, Indiana she married G. Keith Thorpe who preceded her in death on August 7, 2007. Survivors include their children: Barney Thorpe of Valparaiso, Victoria (Carl) Nowlin of Valparaiso, Teresa “Terry” Michiaels of Wanatah, Kathleen Kepler of Merrillville, James Keith (Kim) Thorpe of Valparaiso, & Barbara McKean of Valparaiso, grandchildren: Ryan, Julie, Breann, Tayler, Kelly, Amanda & Kayla, 16 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by a daughter, Rebecca Thorpe, son-in-law, Keith McKean, sister, Helen Edwards, and brother, Bruno “Barney” Bukalski.
Following cremation at Angelcrest Crematory a private family celebration of Emily’s life will be held. Memorial donations may be made to Heart to Heart Hospice, 402 Wall St., Suite 12, Valparaiso, IN 46383.
GUESTBOOK
I want to express my deepest condolences to her wonderful family. She was respected and loved by all who knew her. She will be missed but I hope her journey is peaceful and joyous as she unites with all her loved ones who passed before her. My hope is that her family find peace in knowing she is headed to a renewed life she undoubtedly deserves. God bless you Mrs. Emily Thorpe. -Mary Weiss
