Eugene Lemke

Eugene Lemke, 90, of Indianapolis, Indiana passed from this life on February 1, 2026. Born on February 20, 1935, in Riga, Latvia, Eugene, was known to his friends as Gene and to others as “Gino.” He touched the lives of everyone he met with a sense of humor, joy of life, and an unwavering creative spirit.

He will be remembered for his wide-ranging passions and talents – engineer, pilot, sailboat builder, canvas painter, architect, conversationalist, homebuilder, and designer of engine accessories for Porsche sports cars. Whatever he pursued, he approached it with curiosity, precision, and imagination.

Gene immigrated from Europe with his family in 1951 and settled in Huntington, Indiana. He earned his Electrical Engineering degree from Trine University and began his career at RCA in Indianapolis. Rising through the management ranks, he accumulated several patents in consumer electronics. His technology, innovation, and leadership achievements were recognized when he received the company’s David Sarnoff Award.

On May 2, 1959, Gene married Barbara Ann Prosser and together they raised three children. He and Barb spent weekends competing in sailboat regattas at Geist Reservoir and countless lakes, rivers, and seas throughout the United States. They were active in the neighborhood social club fondly known as the “Lantern Hillbillies” and together they were a formidable bridge pair.

Gene was preceded in death by his wife Barbara and his parents (Romans and Elena). He is survived by his brother, Guido “Al” Lemke (Karin) and his three children, Gary Lemke, Lisa Halsworth, and Kim Bell (Gregg) who will cherish his memory.

His legacy continues with ten grandchildren, Heidi Halsworth, Caroline Mattingly (Charlie), Ryan Bell (Blair), Kaitlin Schoenman (Brett), Connor Lemke, Eric Bell, Lauren Badua (Phoenix), Olivia Kyle (Kip), Emmie Bell, and Lia Bell. The next generation includes ten beautiful great grandchildren.

A service to celebrate Eugene Lemke’s life was held on February 5, 2026, at Holy Spirit at Geist. He is laid to rest at Hamilton Memorial Park, in Westfield, IN. Family and friends attended and honored his remarkable life and its lasting impact.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered in the hearts of all who knew him.