Patricia A. Gootee

Lafayette, Indiana – Patricia A. Gootee, 76, passed away on February 21, 2026. Her devotion to her family, her caring for others, and most importantly, her love, will be missed by all who knew her.

Pat was born on December 13, 1949, to parents Daniel & Maryjane (Martin) Small in Marion, Indiana. A graduate of Marion High School, Pat was the first EMT in Marion, Indiana, and one of the first in Indianapolis. She also worked as an phone operator for Nordstrom in Indianapolis until her retirement.

The neighborhood mom, Pat, was a caretaker for all her life. She loved all children dearly, but had a special fondness for her grandchildren, who she would spoil as much as she was allowed. She also loved all the children of the neighborhood and was an adoptive grandmother to everyone who came through her door.

Pat spent many years volunteering at the Pioneer Village every year during the State Fair. She became the head weaver after several years honing her craft; demonstrating traditional methods of creating textile artworks and educating the public on methods of spinning yarn, rug making, and knitting. Pat and her family have found immense joy and satisfaction in her work with the Pioneer Village and they could never express how much their Village family meant to them.

In addition to her parents, Pat is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Paul Gootee and sister, Sue Small.

She is survived by her children; Jeffrey Gootee (Brittney Bauer) and Sara Newhart (Stephen); grandchildren Lillie Newhart and Gunnar Gootee; and beloved cats Doodlebug and Smokey.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Flanner Buchanan – Washington Park East (10722 East Washington Street, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46229) from 11 am – 2pm with funeral services following at 2 pm. Burial will take place at Washington Park East Cemetery following services.