Patricia Ann Gaugler

Patricia “Trish” Ann Gaugler, 71, of Granger, Indiana, passed away peacefully in her home on October 30, 2025, with her husband by her side.

Born on August 26, 1954, to Reinhold and Velda (Schrock) Gunderman, Trish was raised on a farm in Goshen, Indiana, alongside her five siblings — Susie St. John (Tom), Diane Reed (Kenny), Mike Gunderman (Brenda), Terry Gunderman (Lola), and Ronnie Paul Gunderman. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Terry and Ronnie Paul; brother-in-law Tom St. John; and niece Marcie Gunderman.

A 1972 graduate of Concord High School, Trish devoted her early years to raising her children, Chad Briggs (Megan) and Tiffany Creech (Chris). She poured her heart into motherhood, always teaching the importance of family, faith, and time spent together. Her children were her greatest joy, and she made sure they always felt deeply loved and valued.

Trish had a heart for helping others. Her smile welcomed people with genuine kindness and her eyes radiated compassion and empathy. Through every challenge in life, her faith in Jesus never wavered — instead, she inspired those around her to find strength through faith as well.

On August 16, 2003, she married the love of her life, Jeff Gaugler. Together they built a beautifully blended family, and she lovingly welcomed Jeff’s children — Blake Gaugler (Tori), Drew Gaugler (Ashton), and Stephanie Gaugler — as her own. Trish and Jeff shared countless adventures, from cheering at baseball fields to traveling across the country for Jeff’s softball games and spending cherished time at their family cabin in Colorado.

Trish’s most valued treasures were her ten grandchildren: Tyler Briggs, Sydney Briggs, Cayden Rohrer, Gauge Creech, Eden Creech, Brooklynn Gaugler, Trevin Gaugler, Lily Gaugler, Madix Gaugler, and Brinley Gaugler. Known affectionately as “Oma,” she created unforgettable memories through family gatherings, sporting events, crafts, “cousins’ weekends,” and joyful days at parks and petting zoos. She made each grandchild feel uniquely loved and special, always pointing them toward faith and kindness.

Outside of her family, Trish found joy in simple, beautiful things — planting flowers, tending to her landscaping, and decorating her home. Her creativity would shine through in her photography, watercolor paintings, and love of crafts and sewing. She was never without her camera and earned the family nickname “Olan Mills” for her knack for capturing life’s perfect moments. Many of those moments were in Colorado, her happy place, snapping photos of not only beautiful scenery, but the family memories. Her days were often spent reading her Bible, talking with Jesus, and sharing His love with everyone she met.

Her legacy is one of unconditional love, unwavering faith, and a life lived beautifully for her family, friends, and her Savior. She will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her.

A private burial will be held for her family and closest friends. There will be a Celebration of Life for those who loved her to attend on November 16, 2025 from 2pm to 4pm at Maplecrest Country Club, 611 Hackett Road, Goshen, IN 46528. Feel free to bring a funny or fun loving story to share!

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Wellfield Botanical Gardens in memory of Patricia Gaugler. Donations may be made by mail, phone, or through their website:
Wellfield Botanical Gardens
1011 North Main Street, Elkhart, Indiana 46514
Email: info@wellfieldgardens.org
Phone: 574-266-2006 ext. 105