Neil Philip Behrle

Neil Philip Behrle, 74, of Carmel, Indiana, passed away unexpectedly but peacefully at home on November 1, 2026.

He was born on April 9, 1952, in Lafayette, Indiana, to the late Joseph and Doris J. (Morel) Behrle. As a young man, he earned the rank of Eagle Scout and graduated from Speedway High School in 1970. He went on to Purdue University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering in 1974 and a Master’s degree in Structural Engineering in 1975.

Neil worked as a structural engineer and partner at Fink Roberts & Petrie. Over a distinguished career, he was blessed to work on several projects for the Indianapolis Zoo, which he loved sharing with his children. He retired from Fink Roberts & Petrie but kept many lifelong friendships that began there.

An Eagle Scout, Neil carried a love of the outdoors throughout his life. He enjoyed camping in Indiana’s state parks, often with a large group of families who called themselves the “Midnight Brat Society.” Together they went on more than 50 family camping trips.

He also had a lifelong love of aviation. He earned his private pilot’s license early in life and was part of Purdue’s student pilot club. He loved vintage World War II aircraft, air shows, and trips to the Dayton Air Force Museum, which he often shared with his children and grandchildren.

An avid traveler, Neil explored many corners of the world and was always looking ahead to his next adventure. Still, the national parks held a special place in his heart, especially Yellowstone and the Tetons, which he returned to many times and in every season. He also enjoyed many years with the Indianapolis Ski Club.

To prepare for one of his children’s weddings, Neil took ballroom dancing lessons, and dancing soon became a passion that lasted more than 20 years. He loved the friendships it brought, entered competitions, and won many awards. Dancing filled his life with energy and happiness, and it was on the dance floor that he met his beloved Connie.

Neil was a longtime member of Cornerstone Lutheran Church in Carmel.

Among Neil’s greatest joys were his grandchildren. He loved spending time with them, cheering them on at their events, and making memories together. His spirit will live on in them and in the countless lives he touched through every adventure, dance, and family gathering he shared along the way.

Neil is survived by his significant other, Connie Hatherill; his children, Ryan (Laura) Behrle, Kevin (Katie) Behrle, and Lauren (Ryan) Deal; his grandchildren, Lillian, Rachel, Levi, Rhys, Luci, Ella, Nora, Kara, Owen, and Mason, with another grandchild on the way; his sister, Marilyn (Mark) Gustafson; his nephew Kyle (Amy) Gustafson; and his niece Ellen Gustafson.

Visitation will be held on Monday, November 9, from 4 to 7 p.m., with additional visitation on Tuesday, November 10, from 10 to 11 a.m. A service will follow at 11 a.m., with Pastor Luther Brunette of Cornerstone Lutheran officiating. All visitations and services will take place at Flanner Buchanan – Carmel, 325 E. Carmel Drive. Neil will be laid to rest at Washington Park North Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the National Park Foundation in Neil’s memory.