Joseph Robert Schilla

Joseph Robert Schilla  
February 10, 1960 - December 9, 2024  

Joseph Robert "Joe" Schilla, 64, of Michigan City, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 9, 2024, at 8:24 a.m. in his home, leaving behind a lifetime of laughter, love, and good-natured mischief.  

A celebration of Joe’s life will be held on January 4, 2025 at 2:00 pm at The American Legion Skwiat Post 451, 121 Skwiat Legion Ave., Michigan City, IN. The Ott/Haverstock Funeral Chapel, Michigan City, IN, is handling arrangements.  

Born on February 10, 1960, in Michigan City, Joe had a knack for bringing a smile to everyone’s face, whether they liked it or not. On April 3, 2004, in Michigan City, he married Donna Marie (Sims), who survives him.  

Joe is survived by his children, Robert (Amy) Schilla of La Porte, IN; Travis Schilla of Chicago, IL; Candice (Brett) Antisdel of Michigan City, IN; Benjamin (Christopher) Berg of Merrillville, IN; Britney (Joe) Bruhler of La Porte, IN; and Mariah (Jeffrey) Coffman of Michigan City, IN. His pride and joy were his eleven grandchildren: Aubrey Schilla, Jaxon Schilla, Lane Vega, Leah Walterhouse, Emma Walterhouse, Bryon Berg, Emily Silvas, Blake Silvas, Liam Coffman, Colton Coffman, and Noah Coffman. He is also survived by his mother Jeanie Mae (Messina) Peterich, and sister, Christal (George) Bevitori of Michigan City, IN.  

Joe was greeted in the great beyond by his dad, Robert Arthur Schilla and many beloved family members, no doubt cracking jokes the moment he arrived.  

A businessman in the construction industry, Joe spent his days building more than just structures-he built friendships and a legacy of humor. He loved his family, especially his grandkids, who could do no wrong in his eyes (even when they did). He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, bird watching, and a good hearty breakfast with anyone willing to join him.  

Joe had a talent for turning a normal conversation into a roast. Whether you were family, friend, or someone he’d just met, you were fair game for his teasing. It was his way of showing love, and if Joe wasn’t giving you a hard time, it was probably because he was planning something even bigger.  

He never met a stranger he couldn’t befriend-or tease mercilessly-and he leaves behind a community of people who will forever smile at the thought of his antics.  

Joe lived his life with humor and heart. Though he’ll be greatly missed, his stories and legendary one-liners will live on, ensuring he’s never far from a good laugh.   

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