Louis Richard Wolter
Louis Richard Wolter, age 89, a loving faithful husband and father, passed away on Sunday, April 21st, 2024 surrounded by family. Born on August 13, 1934, Louis grew up in St. Maurice, IN. during the Great Depression. When he was a young child his father passed away, leaving his mother to single-handedly raise nine children.
He graduated from Clarksburg High School and went on to earn a BA in Secondary Education from Earlham College, which laid the foundation for his early life.
Louis’ educational journey was put on hold when drafted into the US Army. He proudly served 2 years as a Specialist Four in the Military Police at Ft. Leslie J. McNair, Washington D.C. After leaving the military, his passion for guidance and mentorship led him to Butler University, where he obtained a Master’s in Guidance Counseling.
In 1961, Louis, a lifelong resident of Osgood, IN, started what would become his most fulfilling professional years at Jac-Cen-Del High School. Over the next 39 years, he made a profound impact as a teacher, coach, student advocate, and guidance counselor. His dedication helped shape the academic paths and future careers of countless students. With deep compassion and unwavering commitment, Louis nurtured the potential within each individual, leaving a lasting legacy in the lives of many.
On June 13, 1964, Louis married the love of his life, Amelia Ann Simon who proceeded him in death 2 years ago. Together, they celebrated 58 wonderful years of marriage, nurturing a family of five grateful children: Paula(Mike) Bobek of Plain WI, John(Amy) Wolter of Charlotte NC, Matthew Wolter of Phoenix AZ, Adam(Devonna) Wolter of Batesville IN, and Thomas(Rebecca) Wolter of Austin TX. His 12 grandchildren include: Andrew(Shelby) Bobek and Steven(Maureen) Bobek; Christopher, Nicole, and Evan Wolter; Justin(Jennifer) Wolter and Branden Wolter; Seth and Layne Phillips; Crystal Leahy, Megan and Blake Wolter. His five great grandchildren include Kyla(Justin) and Cora; Ariana, Waylon and Kyla(Crystal).
An avid gardener, Louis was renowned for his homegrown fruits and vegetables, especially his tomatoes, potatoes, sweet corn, peaches, and melons, which he generously shared with friends and neighbors. His green thumb was only one of the many ways he contributed to our community.
Louis’ spiritual devotion was evident in his lifelong commitment to St. Maurice Catholic Church in Napoleon, where he was a well-respected and dedicated lector. His faith and service to the church community were sources of strength and inspiration to many.
He is survived by his children, 6 sister-in-laws: Melinda(Tim) Wissel, Rita(James) Bedel, Patricia Simon, Dolores Simon, Marlene Wolter, and Rosie Wolter; 1 brother-in-law: Dale(Bonnie) Simon. He was preceded in death by his parents, Adam Frank and Mathilda(Gauck) Wolter; five brothers: Carl, Norbert(Doris), Albin(Jean), Bernard, and Martin Wolter; three sisters: Dorothy(Hank) Bicknell, Evelyn M. Kiefer, and Thelma(Leroy) Grossman.
Louis’ life was a testament to his values of faith, family, education, and service. As we remember Louis, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a legacy that will continue to inspire those who knew him. We take comfort in knowing that his spirit will live on through his family, his work, and the countless lives he touched. Louis will be dearly missed, yet his memory will forever remain in our hearts.
Visitation will be at Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles, IN, Friday, April 26 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. with rosary at 3:45 p.m. Mass and Catholic burial will take place, Saturday, April 27 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Maurice Catholic Church in Napoleon, IN. Military graveside rites will be given by the Versailles American Legion. Memorials can be offered to the St. Maurice Cemetery in care of the funeral home.
