Carden Rothbauer

Carden Rothbauer of Carmel, IN, passed away on January 21, 2026, at the age of 15. He was born in Colorado Springs, CO, on April 30, 2010.

It is with a brokenhearted, soul shredded spirit that I share the passing of my one and only beloved son, Carden Rothbauer, a sophomore at Carmel High School.

Carden had a funny quick wit and such a strong determination. He was an incredibly hard worker with sites on Notre Dame University for mechanical engineering and worked part-time after school scooping ice cream. He worked closely with his classmates and was always willing to put himself out there by sharing thoughtful ideas, participating in discussions, and taking risks, even when it meant getting things wrong and trying again. Beyond his strong work ethic, Carden was a true friend and a kind, considerate person to everyone who knew him. In his free time he enjoyed playing video games, cooking and eating, gardening, tinkering, art, and family time.

His curiosity, enthusiasm, and humor had a meaningful impact on everyone he met, and he will be deeply missed.

Carden is survived by his loving mother, Kathleen (Jefferson) Rothbauer; siblings, Cari and Carleen Rothbauer; grandmother, Ethel Jefferson.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather and paternal grandmother

A visitation/gathering will be held from 4pm until 7pm on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at Flanner Buchanan - Carmel (4850 E. Main St. Carmel, IN 46033). An open mic and sharing of memories will begin at 7pm.