Steinke Funeral Home

04/03/2026

Easter is a time for celebration, but children who have lost a loved one may struggle during this time. If your child is grieving, this article offers guidance on supporting them during the Easter season.

If your child has lost a loved one, this article provides guidance for supporting your grieving child during the Easter season.

04/03/2026

Good Friday reminds us of the ultimate act of a loving Father who would send His only Son to die that we might live.

03/30/2026

Bonnie Sue Gifford

Bonnie Sue Gifford, age 67, of Rensselaer, IN passed away unexpectedly on March 26, 2026, at Franciscan Health Crown Point. Born on November 30, 1958, in Lafayette, IN, Bonnie lived a life marked by dedication, warmth, and a spirited personality that touched all those fortunate to know her.

A proud graduate of Tri-County High School, Bonnie devoted nearly three decades to her career as a lead service associate at Lafayette Bank & Trust in Rensselaer. Her commitment to her work and the relationships she built with colleagues and customers alike reflected her happy, cheerful, and outgoing personality.

Bonnie found immense joy in her family. She cherished every moment spent with her two sons, Matthew (Karrie) Gifford of Rensselaer, IN and Adam (Mary) Gifford of Kentland, IN. Her love extended beautifully to her five grandchildren: Isaac Babcock and Renesmee Gifford of Kentland, IN; Travis (Katie) Irvine, Austin Johnson, and Colton Johnson of Rensselaer, IN. The bright light of her life also included seven great-grandchildren: Leighton Johnson, Charley Johnson, Evelyn Johnson, Jaxston Irvine, McKennah Irvine, Ivy Johnson, and Piper Johnson. Beyond family, Bonnie delighted in simple pleasures such as completing word find books and thoughtfully sending out greeting cards for every holiday, spreading happiness through these small acts of kindness.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Philip E. Gifford, and her loving parents, Albert E. Miller, Jr. and Iona Mae (Hensley) Miller. Their memories remain a precious part of her story and the foundation of the love she carried throughout her life.

Bonnie's family is planning a celebration of her life at a later date.

Bonnie Sue Gifford will be remembered as a joyful spirit whose warmth and kindness enriched the lives of everyone around her. Her legacy endures in the hearts of her family and friends. Through their love and memories, Bonnie’s light continues to shine brightly.

Steinke Funeral Home is honored to be handling the cremation arrangements.

View Bonnie Sue Gifford's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/30/2026

03/27/2026

Have you heard of funeral honorariums? If you haven't, check out this brief article that answers key questions about honorariums, including what they are and who receives them. And if you have more questions, just give us a call, and we'll provide the answers you need.

Did you know that an honorarium is customary when you perform specific roles at a funeral? Check out this article to learn more!

03/24/2026

By creating a personalized and meaningful service, you not only honor a loved one's life, you acknowledge and honor the beauty of the relationship you shared.

At Steinke Funeral Home, we will review all the options and offer suggestions so you can choose the best way to celebrate that special bond and honor the unique person you've lost. Together, we will create a fitting and memorable tribute.

Contact us today at 219-866-5151 to discuss the possibilities.

03/23/2026

James J. Murphy

James J. Murphy, affectionately known as Jim, age 83, passed away peacefully on March 22, 2026, in Lafayette, IN. Born on March 23, 1942, in Pontiac, IL, Jim lived a life marked by dedication, family devotion, and a steadfast work ethic.

A proud graduate of Kempton High School in Kempton, IL, class of 1961, Jim went on to build a long and distinguished career at R.R. Donnelley in Dwight, IL, where he worked diligently for 35 years. His professional life was characterized by commitment and hard work, qualities that those who knew him deeply admired.

Jim was a man of many facets—a story-teller who delighted in sharing tales, a stubborn individual with a resilient spirit, and above all, a devoted family man. His love for his family was evident to all who knew him, especially when it came to his grandchildren. He took great joy in watching his grandchildren show cattle and play baseball, interests that brought him immeasurable happiness. Jim was also an avid card player, especially fond of euchre, often spending time with friends at the Rensselaer Senior Center, where his wit and companionship were treasured. He had a deep appreciation for the farm, enjoying the simplicity and peace it offered.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Kay Murphy; his daughter, Patti (Nick) Steinke; and his son, Brian (Jaime) Murphy; and his brother, Dale (Velma) Murphy. He was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren: Savannah (Jack), Lane, Lily, Aidan, Jacob, and Andrew, as well as great-grandfather to little Trey. Their presence in his life was a source of great pride and joy.

He was preceded in death by his father, Claude Murphy; mother, Margaret (Giacometti) Murphy; and brother, Donald Murphy.

Visitation will be Thursday, March 26, 2026 from 10 a.m. until time of the funeral at noon at Steinke Funeral Home of Rensselaer. Father Joshua Bennett officiating. Private burial will be at Burr Oak Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Rensselaer Senior Center.

Steinke Funeral Home is honored to be handling the arrangements.

View James J. Murphy's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/20/2026

The more personal a funeral service is, the more meaningful it will be for the entire family. To help your family brainstorm possible ways to create a truly one-of-a-kind final goodbye, check out this list of 10 ideas to consider. And if you don't find something that feels right, this list is only the beginning. We're happy to sit down with you and come up with even more ideas to create the perfect sendoff.

To be meaningful and healing, a funeral must be personal. Check out this article for 10 ideas to create a truly unique final tribute.

03/20/2026

Winter is past. Spring has come. After long and difficult winters, spring is a welcome change. Do you have any plans for this spring that you're looking forward to?

03/17/2026

The color green has long been associated with Ireland, so it makes perfect sense that we should wear green to honor St. Patrick's Day. Do you wear anything special to celebrate St. Patrick's Day?