John Kosta Stoddard, (Bloomfield, Indiana) previously of Merrillville, Indiana, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, September 22, 2026.

John was born and raised in the region, attending Merrillville schools and is affectionately remembered as “Tank” by his fellow Pirates on the football team. After graduating from Merrillville High School, he went on to earn his Bachelor’s degree from ISU – of which he was extremely proud of. In recent years John made his home downstate and worked as a pharmaceutical validation engineer. He traveled often, for work and for fun, and found amazing beauty and opportunities in all of the places that he had visited. He was an avid music lover and concert goer, making friends wherever he went.

John made everlasting, positive impressions on all – most importantly, his family. He loved with every bit of himself and was the most devoted son and brother and proud uncle you could find. He will be profoundly missed by his family: his mother, Nancy Baldyga; his sister and brother-in-law, Candis and Chris Tokarski; his niece and nephews: Cadin, Cain, and Casin, who were his whole world; many extended family and close friends; and his cats: OJ, Coaly, and Blue, who were always close to provide comfort and companionship.

John is preceded in death by his father, Norman Stoddard; and his maternal grandparents Kosta and Velika Petrov; and paternal grandparents, John and Marylou Stoddard.

All are invited to visit with the family on Monday, September 28, 2026 from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM at Calumet Park Funeral Chapel (7535 Taft Street, Merrillville, Indiana 46410).
A celebration of life service will begin at noon, followed by interment at Calumet Park Cemetery. For additional information, please call 219-738-8902.