Lynne Laree Rastovski

Lynne Laree (Leake) Rastovski (89), a longtime resident of Demotte, Indiana passed away Friday night, November 17, 2023. She was born in Amboy, Illinois on December 11, 1933 to Deane Leake Sr. and Bernadine Beemer Leake. Lynne graduated from Merrillville High School with the class of 1951. During her time there, Lynne enjoyed playing the trombone in the marching band. It was there that she met her husband of 71 years, Thomas Joseph Rastovski. Lynne and Tom were married on October 3, 1952 and would go on to have their three boys. Lynne was a woman of strong conviction, and this is exemplified by her life-long passion for education. While raising her three boys, Lynne went on to get her degree in education from Indiana University Northwest, and soon after earned her master’s degree from Valparaiso University. While Lynne always valued education for herself, she was also very passionate about providing education to others. She taught elementary education within the Crown Point School System and served her students for 20 years. During this time, she served as a representative in the Teacher’s Union, and was relentless in contract negotiations, always working to ensure the happiness and well- being for her fellow educators. Lynne was also an active member in her Church, Range Line Presbyterian Church in Hebron, Indiana. She enjoyed worshiping in a multitude of ways, including singing in the church choir, baking for church fund raising events, and delivering meals to those in need. Whether it be in a classroom, or out in the world, Lynne always believed there was something to be learned. She enjoyed years of travel and adventures with both her family and her best friend Dorothy “Dottie” Upchurch. Lynne enjoyed traveling through the Midwest with her husband, as a member of the “Ain’t No Mountain Cloggers” dance group, entertaining at a variety of events such as county fairs and nursing homes for over 10 years. While she was privileged to see many parts of the world, her trips to Canada with her family always held a special place in her heart. Lynne grew up taking fishing trips to Canada with her parents, and carried on the tradition with her children, and eventually grandchildren. Days on the lake enjoying fishing, board games, and laughs always seemed to highlight her summers. Lynne found the most joy when she was surrounded by her family. She took great pride in her sons, and the families they built. She was a vocal fan, cheering for her kids and grandkids at every opportunity and at all types of competitions and performances. She loved passing down her knowledge and wisdom to her family. Whether it be teaching a card game, needle point, or a family recipe, Lynne wanted to make sure she taught as much as she could. Lynne was always grateful for the excellent health she enjoyed for the majority of her life. Although her final years proved to be very difficult, her family finds comfort knowing she is finally at peace. Lynne was preceded in death by her parents Deane R. Leake Sr. and Bernadine Beemer Leake, and siblings Deane R Leake Jr. and Donald L. Leake. She is survived by her husband, Thomas J. Rastovski of Demotte Indiana, children Donald T. Rastovski (Cyndy) of Demotte Indiana, Timothy S. Rastovski (Ellen) of Valparaiso Indiana, David W. Rastovski (Debra) of Valparaiso Indiana, her grandchildren Alexander, Anne, Thomas, and Emily, and sister-in- law Laura Leake of Chesterton Indiana. Friends are invited to visit with the family on Wednesday, November 22, 2023 from 10:00AM to 12:00PM at Jackson Funeral Service of DeMotte. A funeral service will be held immediately following at 12:00PM at Jackson Funeral Service of DeMotte. Cremation rites will be thoughtfully provided by Jackson Funeral Service of DeMotte afterwards. Memorials may be made in Lynne’s memory to the Range Line Presbyterian Church of Hebron.

Lynne Laree Rastovski

December 11, 1933 - November 17, 2023