John L. Gutzwiller
November 27, 1935 ~ October 8, 2018
John L. Gutzwiller, 82, of Indianapolis, passed away at his home on Monday, October 8, 2018. Born in Indianapolis on November 27, 1935, John was the son of the late Paul and Carrie (Ringen) Gutzwiller. On July 28, 1956, he was united in marriage to Dorothy M. (Sprong) Gutzwiller and she survives.
John proudly served his country in the United States Navy, serving on the USS Firedrake. After serving in the military he began an apprenticeship with the Plumbers Local Union #73. John began a successful career in project management serving as Vice President for Kirkhoff Mechanical and Fryen Brothers. He retired in 2013 as a project manager for North Mechanical after a career that spanned for nearly 50 years. He was the proud recipient of the distinguished service award from the Mechanical Contractors Association of Indiana.
John was a faithful member of St. Barnabas Catholic Church and a 3rd degree member of the Knights of Columbus, Monsignor Downey Council #3660. He enjoyed singing with Knights of Columbus ambassador choral group. A loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, and great grandfather, John especially enjoyed spending time with his family and grandchildren, and enjoyed spending time on the boat at Patoka Lake.
John is also preceded in death by his daughter, Vickie Lynn Gutzwiller; and his brother, Paul Gutzwiller, Jr.
Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Dorothy; two sons, John P. (Anna) Gutzwiller of Indianapolis, and Joseph Michael (Julie) Gutzwiller of Indianapolis; his sister, Vivian Reinhardt of Tallahassee, Florida; 13 grandchildren, Adam, Jeff, Brandon (Rachel), Jessica, Jake, Ben, Samantha, Joshua, Ryan (Christina), Jeremy (Arika), Marissa (Greg), Austin (Claire), and Aaron (Olivia); and 3 great grandchildren, Owen, A.J., and Jace with one on the way; and a host of nieces and nephews.
Family and friends will gather to celebrate the life of John Gutzwiller from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Friday, October 12, 2018 in the Daniel F. O’Riley Funeral Home, 6107 S. East Street, Indianapolis. Prayers will begin at Noon on Saturday, October 13, 2018 at the funeral home followed by 12:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial at St. Barnabas Catholic Church. Entombment will follow at Calvary Cemetery. Visit www.OrileyFuneralHome.com where you may express online condolences to the Gutzwiller family.
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John, Joe I pray God will ease your grief with precious memories. Condolences to you both and your families.
I worked with John at Fryen 1991-1994. He was always upbeat and congenial with a smile. We were in separate divisions but he was always available for experienced advice and (much needed!) guidance. A credit to his country, industry, and most certainly his family.
Dorothy, my thoughts of sympathy and prayers are with you and your family. Jane Kreiger
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I will always have fond memories of John. He meant a lot to my family. My deepest condolences to you all. Susan (Kirkhoff) Sweezy
Long years ago when I was a young teenager, I got a job as a stock boy at Fisher’s Market on the corner of Wright and Sanders streets. John was a little older than me and drove their delivery truck. I remember he was a big beef of a guy who always had an easy smile and a gentle demeanor. I’m glad our life paths crossed and I had the privilege of knowing him. Rest in peace, big John.
To the family of John, may the resurrection hope at acts 24:15 be a source of comfort to you all
Colin & Aunt Melissa in February, 2021.
John, a long time since Wright Street where your mother tended to me after having my tonsils removed. Enjoyed visiting Merchants Bank where your dad worked. Your Model A and so many memories. RIP. You’re a good man.