Magdalen Welch Zauner

Magdalen Welch Zauner, nee’ Magdalen Cecile Welch a loving wife, sister, aunt and friend, who passed away on June 23, 2026, in her hometown of Indianapolis, Indiana. Born on December 9, 1962, in Indianapolis, Magdalen’s life was a treasured journey marked by kindness, devotion, and deep family bonds.

Magdalen’s life was defined by love—the steadfast love she gave and the genuine warmth she brought into every relationship. She was the beloved wife of David Richard Zauner, whose days were brightened and grounded by her unwavering support, gentle humor, and overflowing compassion. Their partnership was a testament to mutual respect and affection, reflecting the very best that two people can share.

Family was the heart of Magdalen’s world. She was the cherished sister of Theresa Nees, Agnes Welch Taylor, Mary Aiken, Rita Welch, Martha Mendez, Tom Welch, Vincent Welch, Bernard Welch, Pete Welch, Ed Welch, and Greg Welch.

Her familial connections reached into the next generation and beyond, as she took delight in her nieces, nephews, and extended family, including Bill Aiken, Joseph Aiken, Neal Aiken, Abby Hitze, Ben, Charlotte Hitze, Andy Taylor, Elle, Luke, Kris Byrnes, Owen, Audrey, Laura Taylor, Kate Rarick, Lucy, Melinda Welch, Aaron Nees, Avi, Sean Welch, Steven Welch, Samantha Welch, Thomas Welch, Emily Welch, Matthew Welch, Natalia Welch, Isaac Welch, Ian Welch, Herbert Clay Miller III, and Lydia Mendez. Each soul in this constellation of loved ones experienced Magdalen’s nurturing spirit, her ability to listen deeply, and her boundless generosity.

Though her sister Grace Welch, her father Thomas Andrew Welch, and her mother Ann Elizabeth Hils Welch preceded her in death, their memories remained constants in Magdalen’s life and stories.

Through every chapter of her life, Magdalen was a quiet source of strength and joy. Her life was a collection of gentle acts of care—offered unconditionally and without expectation. Whether through shared laughter at the table or in a word of encouragement quietly offered, she lifted those around her with grace.

The deep well of her faith was also a vital part of Magdalen’s journey. It was present in her daily actions, visible in her compassion, and woven into the fabric of her relationships. This faith provided comfort and guidance to Magdalen and inspired those fortunate enough to witness her example.

The family invites friends and all whose lives were touched by Magdalen to join in honoring her memory. Visitation will be held on July 2, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at O’Riley – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory, located at 6107 S East St, Indianapolis, IN 46227. Additional visitation will be at St. Barnabas Catholic Church on July 3, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. at St. Barnabas Catholic Church, 8300 Rahke Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46217. Inurnment will follow at Calvary Cemetery.

Please visit www.ORileyBranson.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.

In the tapestry of those who knew her, Magdalen’s legacy is one of gentleness, steadfast love, and quiet devotion. She remains forever in our hearts—a shining light whose memory continues to inspire and uplift.