Denise L. McCracken

Denise Louise McCracken, age 70, of Chesterton, Indiana, passed away on August 16, 2025.

She was born on September 26, 1954, in Hammond, Indiana, to Donald Eugene Rootes and Henrietta “Hank” Dubish Rootes. Denise grew up in the predominantly Polish neighborhood of Hegewisch in Chicago, Illinois, where she attended St. Florian’s Church and Grade School. In her teenage years, she moved with her father to Chesterton, Indiana, and graduated from Chesterton High School with the Class of 1972.

In her early career, Denise worked in security at Bethlehem Steel, where she met the love of her life, Dean McCracken. They were married on July 27, 1985, and built a life together centered on family, faith, and hard work.

Through an on-the-job training program, Denise discovered her true calling as a respiratory therapist, a career in which she found great purpose and fulfillment for much of her life. Alongside her professional work, Denise was also known for her remarkable baking talents—especially her cheesecakes, which became a cherished family tradition.

Denise was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Hank Rootes; her siblings Frank, Kevin, and Jackie Rootes; and her stepsister, Marcia Moudry.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 40 years, Dean McCracken; her children Kevin (Beth) McCracken and Ashley (Justin) Boothe; and her beloved grandchildren Hokulani, Matthew, and Daisy McCracken, and Aliya and McKenna Boothe. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and close family friends who will deeply miss her warmth, kindness, and generous spirit.

A memorial service will be held at Restoration Church, 552 W. Morthland Dr., Valparaiso, IN 46385, on Saturday, August 30, 2025. Visitation will be from 12pm-3pm with service at 3pm.

Denise will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend whose care for others and joyful presence left a lasting impact on all.