Carl Michel Nerding

Carl Michel Nerding, 61, of Martinsville, Indiana, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. He was born on Saturday, August 8, 1964, in Beech Grove, Indiana, to Roland Carl and Doris Ann (Michel) Nerding.

In 1975, Carl moved with his family to Martinsville, where he grew up and made lifelong memories. He attended Centerton Elementary School and East Middle School and graduated from Martinsville High School with the Class of 1982. During his high school years, Carl's many talents were already evident. He sang in the school musical South Pacific and was a member of the tennis team, playing number two doubles on the sectional championship team during his senior year. His curiosity and love of learning continued throughout his life, and he went on to earn bachelor's degrees in both psychology and microbiology from Indiana University.

He was most recently employed by Algaeon, Inc. as a laboratory technician and had previously worked for the Hoosier Orchid Company, both in Indianapolis.

Beyond his professional achievements, Carl was a man of remarkable intellect and heart. He loved collecting cookbooks, cooking, reading, mathematics, helping others, and making people laugh. Known for his quick wit, extraordinary sense of humor, and clever rhyming ability, Carl had a unique gift for bringing joy to those around him. His family fondly shared that he would have loved nothing more than to be a lifelong college student, always learning and exploring new ideas.

Carl was a dedicated member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where he was blessed with a large and loving church family whom he deeply cherished. His faith was an important and guiding presence in his life.

Along with his father, Roland Carl Nerding, Carl was preceded in death by his aunt, Deloris Christie, and two cousins, Curtis Graham and Scott Christie.

He is survived by his loving mother, Doris Nerding of Martinsville, Indiana; brothers, Erich Michel of Mooresville, Indiana, and Fritz (Susan) Nerding of Brown County, Indiana; two nieces; five nephews; one great-niece; six great-nephews; his aunt, Joan Graham; and cousins, Christina Seiler, Kenny Graham, Randy Christie, and Sean Christie.

Family and friends are invited to attend a service celebrating Carl's life on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, beginning at 2:30 PM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 100 Church Street, Martinsville, Indiana. Visitation will be held immediately prior to the service from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM at the church. Carl will be laid to rest in New South Park Cemetery in Martinsville following the service.

Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers are encouraged to assist Carl's family with his final expenses and may be made to Neal & Summers Funeral and Cremation Center, 110 E. Poston Road, Martinsville, Indiana 46151, or online at www.nealandsummers.com.

Carl will be remembered for his brilliant mind, gentle spirit, infectious humor, and the kindness he shared so freely with others.