Ramona “Mona” Diaz (nee Horton), age 63, of LaPorte, formerly of Merrillville, passed away on Wednesday, January 17, 2018 surrounded by her blended family after a long struggle with heart disease.

She is survived by husband: Emilio “Rico”; daughter: Alexis (Raymond) Callahan; grandson Remy Christopher Chirila; step-children: Aaron Diaz and Rachel (Apollo) Russell; sister: Maureen (Wally) Kolodziej, nieces & nephews: Matt (Sarah), Geoff, and Emily Kolodziej; and her furry babies: Lorelei, Callie, and Rusty. Mona is preceded in death by parents John and Eugenie Horton.

Mona was born on December 14, 1954 in Gary. She was a longtime resident of Merrillville, was graduate of Merrillville High School Class of 1973, and graduated from Commonwealth College in 1984. Mona was an accountant with Town of Munster, Town of Merrillville, Jay Mar Ruby, Mittler Gas, and Michigan City Baking. She married Rico on December 1, 2001 and was a great companion whose art and inspiration left a mark on her family, friends, and anyone who loved life. She was not only a great wife, mother, and sister, but also a lifelong caregiver to her little pack of Doxies. A very special thank you is given to everyone who helped Mona out through the V.N.A.

A Memorial Service will take place Sunday, January 28, 2018 at 1:00 pm from Pruzin Brothers Chapel (6360 Broadway, Merrillville) with Rev. Tom Shanahan officiating. Visitation will take place on Sunday from 11:00-1:00 pm. Memorial donations are preferred to the Dachshund Rescue of North America or the American Cancer Society.