Kevin Edward Warren

Kevin Edward Warren, age 61, of New Carlisle, Indiana, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family, on Monday morning, October 12, 2026.

Kevin was born on August 30, 1965, in Michigan City, Indiana, to the late Walter Nathaniel Warren, Jr. and Beverly Kay (Bross) Warren. A 1983 graduate of Elston High School, Kevin went on to attend Indiana University, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in English in 1987. His passion for learning and his desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others eventually led him to pursue a career in law. In 2006, he graduated magna cum laude from Valparaiso University School of Law, earning his Juris Doctor degree.

One of the most meaningful chapters of Kevin's life began in March of 1998, when he met Debra Emerick at Galveston's in Michigan City, where she had come to watch his band perform. What began with a shared moment surrounded by music blossomed into a beautiful love story. The couple became engaged in June of 2000 and were united in marriage on October 21, 2000, at Trinity Episcopal Church in Michigan City. Together, Kevin and Debra built a life centered on love, laughter, mutual devotion, and the family they treasured. Their marriage of nearly 26 years was a testament to the enduring bond they shared.

Following law school, Kevin served as a law clerk to United States Magistrate Judge Andrew Rodovich, an experience that helped shape his distinguished legal career. In 2008, he joined the South Bend law firm of Sopko, Nussbaum, Inabnit and Kaczmarek, where his dedication, intellect, and unwavering professionalism earned him the respect of his colleagues and clients alike. In 2016, he became a partner in the firm. Throughout his career, Kevin approached his work with thoughtfulness, integrity, and a genuine desire to help others. He understood that being an attorney was about more than practicing law; it was about listening, guiding, and making a positive difference in people's lives.

While Kevin found great fulfillment in his legal profession, music was one of the true passions of his life. From his teenage years onward, music was woven into the very fabric of who he was. A gifted vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter, Kevin possessed an extraordinary musical talent that he enthusiastically shared with others. Beginning with his high school band, "The Rodents," his musical journey continued through the years with bands including "The Merkins," "Audios Pantalones," "Hotel Bravo," and "Live Animals." Whether performing at local establishments throughout LaPorte County or simply enjoying the opportunity to play alongside fellow musicians, Kevin was truly in his element with a guitar in his hands. He was an exceptional guitarist. His guitar solos had a way of stopping people in their tracks, drawing them in to listen and appreciate the incredible talent he so naturally possessed. For Kevin, music was never simply a hobby; it was a lifelong source of joy, creativity, friendship, and personal expression. Through his music, he created memories and connections that will continue to resonate with those fortunate enough to have heard him play.

Kevin was also a talented photographer with a keen eye for capturing the beauty and wonder of the world around him. He especially loved traveling with Debra and their sons, exploring new cities, discovering remarkable landmarks, and creating lasting memories together as a family. Wherever their adventures took them, Kevin was rarely without his camera, thoughtfully capturing the architecture, scenery, and unique character of the places they visited. Photography allowed him to combine his artistic creativity with his love of exploration, preserving not only the places they had been, but also the special moments they shared along the way. His photographs became a beautiful visual record of their family's adventures, treasured reminders of the experiences, laughter, and time spent together. For Kevin, the greatest joy of traveling was not simply seeing the world but experiencing it alongside the people he loved most.

Above all else, Kevin was a devoted husband and an exceptionally proud father to his three sons, Wyatt, Marshall, and Wesley. He believed that being a father meant more than simply being present for life's milestones; it meant showing up for all the moments in between. Whether standing along the sidelines, volunteering at an event, coaching a team, or lending a helping hand wherever one was needed, Kevin was always there. He was the kind of father who gave generously of his time, not because he felt obligated, but because there was nowhere else he would rather be.

Kevin's dedication to his sons and their interests extended throughout the New Prairie community. He was a proud New Prairie Band Booster parent, spending countless hours working concession stands during football games and supporting the music programs that meant so much to his family. When his son participated in Indoor Percussion, Kevin could often be found behind the wheel of the U-Haul, making sure the equipment made it safely to its destination. He was equally devoted to his sons' involvement in athletics, serving on the board of the New Prairie Little League, volunteering with Trail Creek Little League, and coaching fall baseball leagues. During their younger years, he was actively involved in Boy Scouts, serving as a parent volunteer and board member. Kevin never hesitated to step forward when something needed to be done, and his willingness to help extended far beyond his own children. He became a source of encouragement, guidance, and support to countless other young people along the way.

Perhaps what made Kevin so remarkable was that his many accomplishments never overshadowed the simplicity of his goodness. Despite his intelligence, talents, and professional success, he remained a genuinely humble, kindhearted, and patient man. He possessed the rare ability to make others feel heard, valued, and understood. Whether someone needed sound advice, a helping hand, a listening ear, or simply a friend, Kevin was there without hesitation or expectation of anything in return. He gave freely of himself, offering his time and compassion in ways both great and small. Those who knew him often expressed a sentiment that speaks volumes about the man he was: "He made me a better person just from knowing him." There could be no more meaningful reflection of a life so generously and thoughtfully lived.

Kevin leaves behind his beloved wife of nearly 26 years, Debra L. Warren; his three cherished sons, Wyatt Warren, Marshall Warren, and Wesley Warren; his sister, Karla (Michael) Pedue; his nephews, Nathaniel (Mandy) Pedue and Austin (Joelle) Pedue; five great-nephews, Brooks, Blake, Knox, Crosby, and Nash; and one great-niece, Ava. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A Celebration of Kevin's Life will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services in LaPorte, Indiana. In keeping with Kevin's welcoming spirit and the many meaningful connections he made throughout his life, an open microphone will be available at 4 p.m. for family and friends who wish to share their favorite stories, memories, and reflections of Kevin. All are encouraged to come together to celebrate a life that touched so many.

Burial will be private.

Kevin's life was a beautiful composition of love, music, dedication, and kindness. He was a man of many talents, but his greatest gift was the way he made others feel and the love he so freely gave. He understood that life's greatest rewards were not found in titles or accolades, but in the relationships we nurture, the people we encourage, and the memories we create together. His legacy lives on in the family he adored, the young lives he helped shape, the friendships he cherished, and the countless people whose lives were made richer simply because he was part of them. Though his guitar has grown quiet, the music he made, the lessons he taught, and the love he shared will continue to echo in the hearts of those who knew him. Kevin's song may have come to an end, but its melody will never be forgotten.