Dean E. Gengelbach

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Dean Edward Gengelbach announces his passing on February 21, 2026, at the age of 65.

Dean was born on May 6, 1960, in Tell City to Edward and Malinda Gengelbach. A proud 1978 graduate of Heritage Hills High School, Dean continued his education at Ivy Tech Community College, graduating in 1980. His passion for welding became both his profession and his lifelong calling.

Dean dedicated 45 years to teaching as a welding instructor at Ivy Tech Community College, where he mentored and inspired countless students. He took great pride not only in his own work, but in the accomplishments of his students. He was also a certified welding inspector through the American Welding Society and was currently working as a Welding Engineer at Parker-Meggitt.

On November 10, 1984, Dean married the love of his life, Debbie Harpenau, at St. Paul Catholic Church. Together they built a life defined by love, family, and hard work. Dean was a devoted husband of 41 years and a proud father to Brandon (Lexi) Gengelbach, Bryce (Amanda) Gengelbach, and Alexa Gengelbach (future son-in-law Tyler Hawhee).

Nothing brought Dean more joy than being “Pappy” to his grandchildren — Aubrey, Finley, Colton, Avery, and Hayes. He treasured every moment spent with them.

Dean enjoyed working on the farm, welding projects for family and friends, and lending a helping hand wherever it was needed. He was known for his steady presence, strong work ethic, generous spirit, and deep love for his family.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Debbie Gengelbach; his children and grandchildren; his parents; his brothers, Dale Gengelbach and Devin (Lisa) Gengelbach; his in-laws, Jeff (Lana) Harpenau and Lisa (Darrell) Taylor; as well as four nephews and four nieces.

He was preceded in death by his in-laws, Martin and Nancy Harpenau and his niece, Brooklyn Harpenau.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at Zoercher-Gillick Funeral Home with Fr. Zach Etienne officiating. Burial will follow at St. Mary Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be Monday, February 23, 2026, from 2:00–7:00 p.m. and Tuesday from 8:30 a.m. until service time.

Dean’s legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched — in his family, his students, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.

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