Karl Gilbert Soder

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Gib lived a long and deeply meaningful life marked by service, intelligence, devotion to family, and a generous spirit.

Karl Gilbert Soder, lovingly known as Gib, passed away on September 19, 2026. He was born on January 4, 1927, in Bedford, Indiana.

Gib lived a long and deeply meaningful life marked by service, intelligence, devotion to family, and a generous spirit. He was a graduate of Bedford High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in engineering from Purdue University. He honorably served his country as a World War II veteran in the United States Army, Seventh Cavalry, from March 1945 to November 1946.

Following his military service, Gib built a distinguished career with the Allison Division of General Motors, where he designed turboprop engines and received numerous patents for his work. He retired in 1989, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and accomplishment. Among the achievements that brought him the greatest pride were the life he built with his beloved wife of 72 years, Sue, the home he designed and built with his own hands, and the family he nurtured there. He also gave generously of his time through volunteer work with his church, the Boy Scouts, the diabetes association, and many fairground events.

To his family, Gib was Dad and Pappaw, a steady and joyful presence whose love was felt in countless everyday moments. He was eternally optimistic, deeply supportive of family and friends, always smiling with kindness, and famous for his warm bear hugs. He had a gift for composing his own unique songs and singing them at any moment, keeping those around him laughing and entertained.

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To his family, Gib was Dad and Pappaw, a steady and joyful presence whose love was felt in countless everyday moments.

His family treasures the memories that show so clearly who he was. When his children were young, he always had time for rib tickles and piggyback rides. He helped his daughter through dreaded math and stood beside his son as he faced diabetes. Also, Neal and his dad spend many hours repairing car bodies and engines. Aaron Marconnit remembered “smelling” his way to Showbiz Pizza in the “Cronk” car as a little boy, and later cherished the stories Pappaw shared about cars, engineering, and life itself. Devonne remembered always being warmly welcomed into the home and hearing something kind from him. Katelyn Lucas remembered Pappaw trying to teach her circuits in physics, along with his well-known sweet tooth. David Soder treasured many golf outings with Pappaw, especially the Dairy Queen treats that followed. Wednesdays held a special rhythm of nine holes of golf with Pappaw and Neal, followed by dinner at Arby’s. His son-in-law, John, shared many fishing and hunting trips with Gib, creating wonderful memories over the years.

Family traditions were another expression of his love. Gib was quite the cookie baker, especially at Christmas, carrying forward recipes from his childhood. His Swedish butter cookies and Swedish cups cookies became beloved favorites. Those who loved him remember plates piled high with cookies and ice cream, the train running around the Christmas tree, and the warmth of the fire in the fireplace as the family gathered together.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Sue Soder; his parents, Hjalmer and Ruth Soder; his brother, Sogi Soder; and his sister, Viola Alhorn.

He is survived by his daughter, Lynn Marconnit, and her husband, John; his son, Neal Soder, and his wife, Marcia; his grandson, Aaron Marconnit, and his wife, Devonne; his granddaughter, Katelyn Lucas, and her husband, Paul; his grandson, David Soder, and his wife, Caitlyn; and his great-grandchildren, Lydia and Elliott Marconnit, Adelaide Lucas, and Owen Soder. In each of their lives, he leaves the enduring gift of love, encouragement, laughter, and example.

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He was eternally optimistic, deeply supportive of family and friends, always smiling with kindness, and famous for his warm bear hugs.

A graveside service, for immediate family, will be held on September 28, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Washington Park North Cemetery, 2702 Kessler Boulevard West Drive, Indianapolis, Indiana 46228.

Gib will be remembered as a loving husband, devoted father, proud grandfather and great-grandfather, gifted engineer, veteran, volunteer, and friend. His life was one of warmth, purpose, and steadfast love, and his memory will continue to live on in the family he cherished so deeply.