Laura Sheerin Gaus

Laura Sheerin Gaus Writer and teacher Laura Sheering Gaus died May 31, 2011 at the age of 91. A lifelong resident of Indianapolis since her birth in 1919, Mrs. Gaus graduated from Shortridge High School and Connecticut College and was awarded a fellowship at Indiana University. She married A. Richard (Dick) Gaus in 1942. She served as a volunteer for the Indianapolis League of Women Voters, The Marion County Juvenile Court Committee, and the Family Service Committee. Later, she received an M.A. in U.S. History from Rutgers and began a career as a high school teacher, teaching at Howe, Attucks, and Park Tudor. She was a principal organizer of a successful Junior Great Books program at St. Joan of Arc and Immaculate Heart Parishes. After nine years of teaching, Mrs. Gaus resigned to become a writer, starting with publications in Indianapolis Magazine. She authored three books: a history of Shortridge High School, a history of Ivy Tech, and a children’s novel, Simon: Irish Boy Encounters New Orleans, based on family history. She also served as a writing coach and held classes on memoir-writing. She is survived by her sons, David, William and Andy. A memorial service for Mrs. Gaus will be held on Sunday, June 12, 2011 at 12:15 pm in the chapel at Marquette Manor, preceded by Mass at St. Thomas Aquinas Church. All are welcome. Donations in her memory may be made to Heifer International. Flanner and Buchanan Funeral Center Washington Park North are handling arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at www.flannerbuchanan.com You are invited to go to the Guest Book page to pass along your personal message or tell a story. Sincerely, -Your friends at Flanner and Buchanan