Michael D. Durkin, age 16, of Chesterton, passed away Monday, September 28, 2026. He was born May 29, 2010, in Crown Point, Indiana, to Michael and Nicole Durkin. Michael was a junior at Chesterton High School.
Michael was a confident, brilliant, articulate son and brother. As a member of the Chesterton Debate Team, he enjoyed the thrill of a good argument. When he wasn’t busy with debating, he enjoyed working at Dairy Queen, and gaming with friends, including spending time building Minecraft, surviving the backyard in Grounded, and mastering tactical battles in War Thunder. He enjoyed Japanese culture, reading anime and One Piece, and learning the language. He especially loved his chocolate lab, Nala, who was his constant companion and loyal friend.
Michael is survived by his parents, Michael and Nicole Durkin; sister, Isabel Durkin; great-grandmother, Alice J. Allen; grandfathers: David W. Turnipseed and Michael G. Durkin; aunts and uncles, John and Kimberly Tancos, and Eric and Amanda Carpenter; cousins: Gabriel Carpenter, McKenzie Carpenter, Easton Tancos, and Vincent Tancos; and a community of extended family and friends, who will miss his intellect and presence every single day. He was preceded in death by his grandmothers: Diana Turnipseed and Michele Durkin.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, October 1, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Moeller Funeral Home, 104 Roosevelt Rd., Valparaiso, with a funeral service beginning at 7:00 p.m., Pastor Charlotte Kroft officiating. Private entombment at Graceland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Porter County Suicide Prevention and Awareness Task Force, or the Alzheimer’s Association.
GUESTBOOK
I am heartbroken that Michael will not be laughing at my jokes or correcting me about something because he is way smarter than me. I will miss his brilliance and his smile. All my best to his family and friends as they work through this loss. Much love and great strength from his Vbyc family. -Dottie Myers-Hill
We are so very sorry to hear this news. Your family is in our prayers and thoughts always. -Tom & Kathy Manning
To the Durkin Family: My heart goes out to you. My you be surrounded by Michael's light and love. Nicole, your Saint Mary's Sisters are holding you. Lean on us. -Cathy Schroeder
We are so very sorry for your loss. Are thoughts and prayers are with you and your families. John and Denise Suski and family. -John and Denise Suski
Nicole, we are praying for you and your family that you may find strength during this time. Remember you are not alone, please reach out and allow people's generosity and love. You may not remember me, but you are a friend of Patti's; therefore special in my heart. Love and prayers, -Lisa Pinkowski Sparks and family
To the Durkin family: There are some losses for which words simply are not enough. Please know that me along with the entire RSM family are holding you and your family in our thoughts and prayers and grieving alongside you. Your son's life mattered, and his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. With deepest sympathy and love. -Dan O'Brien
I am so deeply sorry for the loss of Michael. Reading about the bright, funny, intelligent young man he was, and how deeply he was loved, is heartbreaking. There are simply no words for a loss this profound. Please know that you, Michael, Isabel, and your entire family are in my thoughts and in my heart. I am holding you close and wishing you strength and peace in the days ahead. With deepest sympathy and love -Christine Leftakes
To Nicole and family, Our hearts are with all of you during this difficult time. Words cannot express how deeply sorry we are for your loss. As you celebrate Michael’s life today, we hope you find comfort in the many wonderful memories you have of him. We will always remember him as the smart, quick-witted kid who loved trying to outsmart his parents. Sending you support, and many virtual hugs. - AIR Team -Carna Hogan
I have no words just wrapping you in God's protective love guiding you & giving you strength day to day there is no timeline on grief know you're loved and prayed over Grandma Diana is watching over him eternally. -Vanessa Veatch Ellis
Nicole - your family has been in my prayers. I cannot imagine the pain and loss you must feel but know this, God is holding you and he will give you the peace you and your family needs. A bible verse that I hope give you comfort: Psalm 34:18: "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." -Daysi Dominguez
Nicole and Family - I am so sorry and saddened to hear of Michael’s passing. There are no words that can ease this pain, but please know I am thinking and praying for you. May the love and strength you share with each other help you during this incredibly difficult time. -Phil Maita
Mike, I was deeply saddened to hear about your son. There are no words that can make this easier, but I wanted you to know that I’m thinking of you and your family. I’m truly sorry for your loss. -Aaron Walsh
