Jean Wilma Gierke

Jean Wilma Gierke of Carmel passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 23, 2021, at the age of 98. She was born on June 23, 1922, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to the late Ralph and Ada Scheidler. Jean attended Purdue University. There, she met her future husband Frank on a double date—though not with each other! The meeting was Providence. Jean and Frank were married on April 19, 1944. Immediately upon being wed, they moved to the Liberal, Kansas, U.S. Army air base, where Frank was stationed as an active duty Lieutenant. Soon after the end of World War II, the two came home to Indiana and began building a memorable house where they lived for decades and raised three wonderful children together.

Jean was active in local politics and cared deeply for her country, a passion she passed on to her family. She was also a dedicated quilter, something her grandchildren can attest to from the many gifts they received over the years. Above all, Jean was sustained in life through her faith in Jesus Christ. She was a member of Crossbridge Baptist Church in Indianapolis.

Jean is survived by her children, Carl F. Gierke III, Marty Farmer, and Carol Cockerham; six grandchildren; and eight great grandchildren. She is preceded in passing by her husband, C. Frank Gierke Jr.; and her sisters, Mary O’Malley, and Patti Scheidler.

There will be a private graveside service for Jean on Saturday, May 29, 2021, at Washington Park East Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Crossbridge Baptist Church. Please visit www.flannerbuchanan.com to sign the online guest register and leave your remembrances of a remarkable woman who will be missed.