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Illene Maurer Obituary

Illene K. Maurer

78, Indianapolis, and formerly of Ft. Wayne and Terre Haute, died May 9, 2014. A proud graduate of Wiley High School and Northwestern University, Illene met and married the late Michael B. Maurer in 1956 and moved to Indianapolis, completing her college degree in 1957.

From 1957 throughout the rest of her life, Illene was a devoted volunteer and community leader. Among the many organizations of which she served as president were the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra Women's Committee, Methodist Hospital Task Core, the Bureau of Jewish Education Auxiliary, and the Illinois-Indiana Region of Hadassah. Illene was also the first woman elected as president of the Washington Township School District Planning Committee (forerunner of today's Parent Council) and the first woman chosen to be president of her synagogue, Congregation Beth-El Zedeck. Illene also served on the boards of the Hoosier Capital Girl Scout Council, the Indianapolis Opera, People of Vision, Alliance of the Indianapolis Museum of Art, and the Indiana University Board of Visitors, Jewish Studies Program, and was a trustee of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. In 2001, the Junior League of Indianapolis made Illene an honorary member, and she was currently serving on its Advisory Board. While Illene received numerous awards from the Jewish and general community for her efforts, Illene really valued the lasting contributions she and her late husband Mickey made to the community through the Michael Ben & Illene Komisarow Maurer Young Musicians Contest, run by the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, and the Illene K. and Michael B. Maurer Children's Library at their synagogue.

Illene is survived by three children, Stacy Maurer, Betsy Maurer and Larry Maurer; also five grandchildren; and tons of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and -nephews, and adoring friends.

The funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, May 12, at Congregation Beth-El Zedeck. Memorial donations may be made to the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, Congregation Beth-El Zedeck, or one of the many other organizations Illene served. Arrangements: Aaron-Ruben- Nelson Mortuary. To share a memory or send a message of condolence, visit the online obituary at http://www.arnmortuary.com.

Published by The Indianapolis Star on May 11, 2014.
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Memories and Condolences
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We only met Illene once when she came to Cleveland for a Berlin extended family reunion 18 years ago. Just now updating the family tree after 18 years, and found this I it online. Very sorry for your loss. Cousins, Barbara and Bob Leeson

Barbara Leeson

May 2, 2015

Still missing the wonderful dear Illene even today as I greeted the students at UIndy at the Young Musicians Contest. Hugs to you Stacey.

Nancy Showalter

March 14, 2015

Stacey, Larry, Betsey, Your mother was a wonderful woman. I remember your mother as one of the great ladies of Indianapolis. She was warm, loving and inviting to all. May you all find comfort and peace.

Linda Segall Staff

May 19, 2014

Rest in peace my Hadassah mentor, you will be missed.

Marsha Burman

May 14, 2014

My condolences to the whole family of this wonderful lady Illene Maurer. Everyone in the community knew and loved Illene.
Rhoda Israelov

Rhoda Israelov

May 14, 2014

Of course I had heard the Indianapolis Symphony, but without Mrs. Maurer's support, they most likely would have never heard me. Her impact on young musicians in our state has been deeply felt and will be long remembered.

Nathan Meltzer

May 13, 2014

I was so sad to read about your loss. I had the privilege to know Ilene not only as a neighbor but also as a community leader and volunteer. She will be greatly missed by many.
Cristy Sagalowsky

May 13, 2014

My wife and I are deeply saddened upon hearing the news of Illene's passing just today and regret not being there for her services. A first class lady that always shared a word of encouragement, wisdom, praise and so much more. Her annual tea was always something that so many ladies look forwarded to and was a event that gave Katie, myself and the Broadmoor staff a opportunity to showcase our talents. She will be deeply missed, yet always remembered.

Gregg Campbell

May 12, 2014

I am so sad that Illene has passed away! Stac, Larry, Betsey, I know you all know how wonderful she was! I will always think of her with loving thoughts!!!!!!

Sally Brindle

May 12, 2014

We will truly miss our lovely neighbor and Sophie lover.
Ann Sharp And Elliott Berger

May 12, 2014

We will miss her friendly smile. She was such inspiration for all of us to love our community, our family and our friends.
Ron and Helmi Banta

May 12, 2014

There is no kinder heart then that of Illene Maurer... She was a bright light to all of her friends and to our community.. She will be missed.

Terry Ceaser-Hudson

May 12, 2014

Illene and I bonded through Beth El amd seeing her at Athens restaurant. She was a wonderful lady and I will miss her

Mickki Ashworth

May 12, 2014

"Miss Illene" will be missed . . . Her contributions to the arts and music world in Indianapolis will be remembered . . .

John Plewes

May 11, 2014

I loved your parents and their spirit !!! I will miss them both every day! They r now reunited in gods house!!!!

Lynda Goeke

May 11, 2014

We both went through the Ardath Burkhart Series together and she ended up as both a classmate and a mentor, sharing such wise and thoughtful advice. We were able to stay in touch when Mickey joined me on the Families First board. They were both gentle giants and the most loving couple I had the privilege to know. So sorry for the family's (and our community's) huge loss!

Brad Boyd

May 11, 2014

A wonderful woman and an outstanding member of our community.
Anita and Howard Harris

May 11, 2014

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Funeral services provided by:

Aaron-Ruben-Nelson Mortuary (A.R.N. Cremation) - Zionsville

11411 N Michigan Road, Zionsville, IN 46077

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