Barbara Ann (Brandmaier) Simmel

Barbara Simmel, 86, of Indianapolis, went home to Heaven, on Thursday, January 18, 2024, surrounded by family.  She was born on February 1, 1937, to the late Helmut and Audrey (Kiefer) Brandmaier.  Along with her brothers and sisters, she attended church and school at St. Patrick Parish in Fountain Square.  Barbara had a long career at Eli Lily, Community Hospital, and The Altenheim Senior living community.  She also worked as a playground monitor at St. Jude Catholic School, where her children attended elementary school. 

Barbara was a talented musician, serving as organist and choir member at St. Catherine Parish, St. Jude parish, and various catholic communities. She performed at The Indianapolis Liederkranz, where she met her adoring husband of 55 years, Josef Simmel, who precedes her in death, along with her beloved sister, Diane Bracken, and brother, Freddie Brandmaier.

She is survived by her four devoted children; Joseph Simmel (Denise), Stephanie Simmel Zito (Greg), Janine Simmel and Mark L. Simmel (Jill); grandchildren, Ben, Sarah, Rebecca, Nicholas, Gabrielle, Dylan Marie, Nathan, Evelyn and Maxel; and great-grandchildren, Tyler and Cayden. 

And by her siblings; David (Sandra) Brandmaier, Marie (Alan) Hoffman, and Steven Brandmaier.

Family and friends will gather from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Tuesday, January 30 in Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 1530 Union St., Indianapolis with a Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11 a.m.  Arrangements and care are entrusted to Lauck & Veldhof Funeral & Cremation Services.  Online condolences:  www.lauckfuneralhome.com

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