Indiana’s longest-seated chief public defender and the first ever public defender in Porter County died unexpectedly Sept. 29.

James V. Tsoutsouris, 74, started his private practice in Valparaiso in 1967 after he graduated from Valparaiso University School of Law. His practice focused on criminal defense, family law, and personal injury.

Tsoutsouris also served in the United States Army, from which he was honorably discharged.

He is survived by his wife, Linda O’Brien; children Wolfgang (Tamara) Tsoutsouris, Damian Tsoutsouris, and Natasha Tsoutsouris; step-children Jason Eberhardt and Julie Eberhardt; two grandchildren; three sisters; two brothers; and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be today from 3 to 8 p.m. and Saturday one hour prior to service at Moeller Funeral Home, 104 Roosevelt Road, Valparaiso. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Caring Place, 3107 Cascade Dr., Valparaiso, 46383; Habitat for Humanity Porter County, P.O. Box 492, Valparaiso, 46384-0492; or the United Negro College Fund, 8260 Willow Oaks Corporate Dr., Fairfax, VA 22031.