Gary Joseph Yohler

1945 - 2017

Gary Joseph Yohler obituary, 1945-2017, Indianapolis, IN

FUNERAL HOME

Little & Sons Funeral Home - Indianapolis

4901 East Stop Eleven Road

Indianapolis, Indiana

Gary Yohler Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Dec. 7, 2017.

March 2, 1945 - December 6, 2017



A consummate gentleman and silver fox, Gary Joe was born to Martin and Jane Yohler on March 2, 1945 and raised on Indy's East Side in Irvington. Gary was the middle child, and is survived by all of his 4 siblings.



A graduate of Scecina Memorial High School and Marian College, Gary would thereafter found Tiffany Photography Studio in 1973. Through his wit, humor, infectious personality, and keen eye behind the lens, Gary created a legacy that now spans over 40 years capturing natural beauty, senior portraits, celebrity head-shots, family events, and corporate gatherings. It was through these photographic pursuits that Gary made the acquaintance of another professional shutterbug, Pamela Merklin, and her young toddler, Laralyn. Soon Gary and Pam's joint professional pursuits prompted a private proposal (well, Laralyn was listening intently from the back room) and the couple were married in 1994 in Albuquerque, New Mexico.



To his family, Gary was the signal to start a party (even when it was 3 hours behind schedule) and most know of the depth of the FOG (Friends of Gary) roster. To his friends, Gary was a beacon of hope that many turned to when they had no one else, a source of happiness as he made clear just how much you meant to him, a stalwart for the rich traditions of his faith, and a constant spring of empathy. Gary's spirit was and is larger than life. Throughout his life he was a faithful parishioner at St. Bernadette's, St. Louis de Montfort, & St. Elizabeth Seton, truth be told, he attended mass at just about any church within 10 miles of a semi-permanent residence.



Spouse Pam, Daughter Laralyn (Mark) Holwager, and Grandson Edward Joseph Holwager will treasure the life lessons of "Grandpa Joe" along with his siblings, who survive, Mark (Debbie) Yohler, Barbara Schura, Patty (Paul) Petty, and Dennis (Terri) Yohler. He is predeceased by brother-in-law, Mike Schura. A visitation will be held at St. Elizabeth Seton located at 10655 Haverstick Rd, Carmel, IN 46033 on Friday December 15, 2017 from 4pm - 7pm and a Vigil will follow at 7pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at the church at 10:30am on Saturday December 16, 2017. In lieu of flowers the family requests charitable contributions be made in Gary's honor to Scecina Memorial High School, Bishop Chatard High School, or the Carmel Firefighter's Auxiliary.


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Memories and Condolences
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January 15, 2018

My brother and I came to Indy for my 10 year reunion from Marian College (University, now) to find that our hotel room had been given away. Gary took us in and we slept on the floor of his living room. He was very kind and generous. He will be missed by many.

Pat Moretti (East Norriton PA)

December 19, 2017

Laura and Ben Gonzalez

So sorry to hear of Gary's passing, our thoughts and prayers are with the family. Our family remembers him well, he was such a kind gentleman who truly loved his work and brought out the best in families. Gary has taken most of our family pictures, school pic, wedding, Culver pic, mother daughter and military pic. Thank you for all the photos and all our beautiful memories Gary you are in our prayers. We will never forget you.

Love
The Gonzalez Family

December 19, 2017

Friend

Lori Funk

Pam and Laralyn, I'm so sorry to hear of Gary's passing. I know what a bright light he was, and know he will be sorely missed. May you find solace in all the lovely memories you made together. My thoughts are with you.

December 18, 2017

Friend

Sandy Matthews(Weiker)

Gary was an awesome and fun guy! A good friend to my Mother, JoAnn Weiker and Father, Phillip Weiker. My deepest sympathy to the entire Yohler family.

December 16, 2017

cathy ciresi

Sorry for your loss. He photographed all of my kids. Always was a kind and friendly gentleman. Prayers to all of you.

December 15, 2017

When I entered Marian College in 1972 I had no idea what to expect. I had come from a blue collar family composed of 1st and 2nd generation immigrants; and I was the 1st sibling to graduate from a college.
I met Gary during my work-study at the Admissions Office at Marian. He was the Director of Admissions at that time.

We became friends, and he taught me how to fly-fish! He even went with me to Ayr-Way and helped me select a fly pole. I still have it! We had fun throwing flies on the ponds at Marian and around his lake house out West by Eagle Creek.
Gary was patient and kind and funny; an amazing teacher and prolific photographer; and a great guy to fish with!
May his memory be eternal.
Dr. John M. Klemen, DDS

December 15, 2017

Shannon and Steve Hughes

Gary was always filled with such joy and could make anyone laugh and feel right at home. He was always the life of the party and had such a genuine smile. He will be deeply missed and the whole world seems just a bit duller without Gary here. I will cherish all the beautiful pictures he has taken of our family too. Prayers and love to his cherished family and especially Pam.

December 15, 2017

Debbie Weiker Suckow

Gary was a wonderful guy and when I was an kid he'd always get us excited by asking us if we wanted to get some Dairy Queen. When we'd all start jumping up and down, he'd tell us to go ask our parents to take us! Such a great sense of humor. My thoughts and prayers go out to all his family. He has always held a special place in my heart. Debbie Weiker Suckow

December 15, 2017

Dennis & Patti our condolence to you and the rest of the Yohler clan. Sorry we can not make the church visit. May God Bless You and Your Family.
Ann & Mike Henderson

December 15, 2017

Maureen Madden

I will always remember your smiling eyes and generous heart! May you be with God in heaven!

December 15, 2017

Sylvia Boyle

Barb: I am so sorry for the loss of your brother.
It is so hard to lose someone who meant so much to you and who you loved and cherished.

You are in my thoughts each day.

December 14, 2017

Amy Smay

Pam, Laralyn, Mark Yohler, Barb, Patty, and Dennis - I am so very sorry about the loss of Gary. Gary had called me not long ago to check on me and discuss my moving plans. He wanted to make sure I found just the right place on the northside and gave me several suggestions and kept his eyes peeled for me. Gary was one of my "best bud cousins" and I just adored him. It's so hard to believe he is gone and I know how much he is missed. Sending my love and my prayers to all of you and all the family. I just know how happy Uncle Mart, Aunt Jane and Mike are to be reunited with him in Heaven! Love, Amy Smay

December 13, 2017

Vicki Garrett

I am so sorry to hear of Gary's passing. We met during preparations for the 1966 SMHS class 50th anniversary, giving me the opportunity to work with him. He was a kind, extremely personable man who will be missed by many. Prayers and condolences to his family.

December 12, 2017

Gary Yohler was (is) a true inspiration to all who knew him. A talented wit, a well-spoken gentleman, and above all, a genuine individual who represented all of the best things a life-on-earth can provide; A provider for those who were most close, and for those who were passers-by. This man is a model, and for those who knew him...Review the mems, review the notes...and Aspire.

December 12, 2017

Bob Keppler

I was very deeply saddened to hear of Gary's death. (Thanks Tom Griffin)

We were very close as very young friends growing up together in the East Side and St. Bernadette school.

My brother Tom and Mark were very good buddies and Gary and I were good buds as well and did about everything together as young kids.

But Gary and I got deeply into photography from taking best shots to developing the film and prints in my home darkroom. It was a hobby for me and I had no idea that Gary would continue photography as a career. As everyone knows, he was a terrific professional photographer.

My deepest condolence to Barbara and Dennis but especially to Mark. You all have lost a great bro! And, of course, to his and your families.

Gary, rest in peace and say hi to Tom for me.

Bob Keppler

December 12, 2017

Jonna MacDougall

I am so sorry to hear of Gary's passing. He produced composite photos for the IU McKinney School of Law for many, many years. We all loved working with him. He will be greatly missed. My deepest sympathies to the family.

December 12, 2017

Dear Pam and all the members of Gary's family,
When the Sisters taught us English grammar, they always advised against the use of the word "unique," unless it was truly appropriate. For you see, unique means "one-of-a-kind, and unparalleled." I seldom use the term to this day, but on the occasion of the death of my dear friend Gary, I will say what we all know- - - he was UNIQUE, and there will never be another who will match his generosity of spirit, warm sense of humor, fidelity to his friends, and love for the institutions that raised him. I met Gary at Scecina more than 50 years ago, and that began a life-long friendship. Gary was a couple of years behind our class of '61, of which his brother, Mark, was a member. When I served at Marian as Alumni Director, Gary occasionally brought his fire engine to events so the children of our alumni could see the magic of the fire truck (as seen through the eyes of the one who loved the fire department dearly.) Later, when I served in an administrative capacity at Scecina, Gary was on the spot, at every event. He also was the photographer for all the reunions of the Class of '61, and always had time to share a story, hear the latest news (gossip?), and just enjoy staying in touch. It was my pleasure to have been able to present Gary with an award at the Scecina Annual Dinner that recognized his faithful service. Now, as a faithful servant, he has moved on to his heavenly home where he will be welcomed by all those who went before him. Good by my UNIQUE friend. Maribeth (Taylor) Ransel

December 11, 2017

Cathy Rieger-Jimenez

I am so sorry for the loss of Gary he was a fun and never saw a stranger. All of you are in my prayers.

Cathy Rieger-Jimenez

December 11, 2017

Carlene

I'm so sorry to hear of Gary's passing; he was a wonderful, kind soul who always had a quick smile and happy disposition. My deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones, he will be sorely missed.

December 11, 2017

Kimberly Weiker

I always looked forward to seeing Gary at any Yohler get-together. He was always funny and kind. He will be missed. My condolences to Pam, Laralyn, and the entire Yohler Family.

December 11, 2017

Frances Newsome

Gary was such a treasure and will be sorely missed by all his classmates and friends at Marian University. Rest in Peace, Gary - way too soon.
Fran Newsome

December 11, 2017

Gary was as good as it gets in so many ways. My only sorrow is that he did not get to finish his modern photographic rendition of the Stations of the Cross. Love eternal from the Baker Family, always yours, Jerry Baker

December 11, 2017

Barb (Bates) & Ken Kern

Deepest condolences to the Yohler family. We've known him since college and so enjoyed his wit and charm. He was the go-to photographer for the Indianapolis Catholic school community. Rest in Peace, Gary.

December 11, 2017

Clay Township Staff Doug, Debbie and Donna

Deepest Sympathy to Pam, Laralyn and the entire Yohler family. Gary will be dearly missed by all who knew him, always a smile on his face and a funny story to tell. Our thoughts are with all of you.

December 11, 2017

Katy Patton

Pam and Laralyn,
SO very sorry to hear of the passing of Gary. He always made me laugh. He was an awesome photographer going back 30+ years. He will be missed. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Blessings,
Katy Patton and Family

December 11, 2017

Jim and Debbie Spelbring

Jim and I are so very sorry to hear about Gary. Deepest sympathy to Pam and the entire Yohler family.

December 11, 2017

Cindy HofmannGerlach

So sorry to hear about Gary; our thoughts and prayers are with the Yohler family.

From the entire Dave and Betty Hofmann Family

December 11, 2017

Beth Lux

I am so sorry for your loss. Gary photographed my daughters when they were toddlers and their senior pictures. I always enjoyed tagging along for the photo shoot and talking with Gary. One of the nicest people I have ever met.

December 10, 2017

Larry Campbell

So sorry for the Yohler Family loss.

December 10, 2017

David Siefert

My good friend and mentor in photography. In 1968 Gary and I took the best cross country road trip that I have ever taken. I am so glad that I was able to spend an afternoon with him and Pam this last Memorial Day. It was so great to see him and share old memories together. So long my friend! You will be sadly missed. Dave and Deb...

December 10, 2017

Jim and Tina Kolassa

My wife (Tina) and I opened a business in 1983 across the street from Tiffany Studio and Gary was one of the first to welcome us to the neighborhood. Gary always greeted us with a warm smile and we offer our sympathies to his family. May you all know God's peace.

December 10, 2017

Steve de Kater

Gary did our wedding when Debbie and I were married in 1979. Back then, everything was photos; no digital. We were on a budget, so not very many pictures. Gary took one picture of each grouping, and a very limited number of pictures. At the time, we had a lot of friends taking pictures also, and we had a lot of pictures of Gary in the background; every time I would see him in one of those pictures, I would yell, "Take a picture, Gary!" Fast forward years later, I was working for Airborne Express, and Tiffany Photography became one of my regular-and favorite- stops. I did not recognize Gary (he had white hair and a beard by then), and used to tell him the story of our wedding photographer, among the dozens of stories and jokes we shared all of the time. It wasn't until many years later that I came across the receipt when looking at our wedding album that I realized that Gary the wedding photographer was the same Gary I had been telling the story to all of those years. When I finally saw him again and got to tell him the story, we shared a good laugh about it. (By the way, the pictures were fine; we just had a package that only allowed for a limited number of pictures.)
I ran into Gary once over the last 20 years, and talked to him a few times, but sadly we never got together liked we talked about. As a driver with Airborne, one of things I enjoyed the most was getting to meet people like Gary and Pam, and Gary was always at the top of my list as one of the best people I was lucky enough to get to know during my career. We shared many stories, many jokes, and many laughs. Rest in peace, Gary.

December 10, 2017

So sorry to learn of Gary's passing. We knew each other when he started his business in Broad Ripple. Haven't seen him in quite awhile, but I am so fortunate that he touched my life. My thoughts and prayers are with his family! Sally Rose Fisher

December 10, 2017

Sr. Louise Hoeing

We lost a great friend! Gary touched many lives as he used his gifts to bring out the best in everyone. I first met Gary when he was at Marian College and I was at Our Lady of Grace Academy. Our friendship has been very special. Nothing was ever too much for him.
May he resting peace.

December 10, 2017

Jim Lathrop

I will miss Gary's smile and always warm personality. He was a true friend and a wonderful person. God bless you Gary and I hope you are now with God enjoying the good life.

December 10, 2017

Ed and I extend our deepest sympathy to the Gary Yohler family and friends. Gary had a great talent in the field of photography and in some cases never taking money for his work. He used his God given talent to help people have memories that will last a lifetime.
May God bless you all and wrap His loving arms around you.
Rest In Peace,Gary.

December 9, 2017

Wood Sproat

Gary and I had many pleasant times together going back to the early 1970's. I wish we had more memories later in life but seemed to have lost touch and then reconnected a few times as we both went our separate ways. He was a good, kind and caring man and will be mised greatly.
Wood Sproat

December 9, 2017

Carol and Amos Duncan

Gary, when they made you they broke the mold! There was not another person like you, ever. You were truly one in a million. You were always so generous and gave your all to anyone who asked. Had you charged for all the gratis work you provided, you would've been a millionaire many times over, Your sense of humor was unparalleled. We loved your stories. Why didn't I have you write down the story about "Why Fire Engines Are Red"?
You held a special place in our hearts and we will miss you terribly. Our condolences to Pam and the Yohler family.

December 9, 2017

Jay Grumme

Gary, you will be missed by all who knew you. I remember when we met in 1969. You were the Admissions Director at Marian College and I was determined to finish college. We talked more about our photography hobbies than my qualifications to enroll in Marian. We got together a few times for alumni events, golf and more but when I started my photography business in 1992 you were so helpful as a 20 year veteran professional photographer. After owning my aerial and commercial photography business for 26 years, I retired this year. I will be forever grateful to you for my college and photography career! You are in my heart. God Speed! Jay Grumme, MU '72

December 9, 2017

Rosanne TYlor

Gary was among the most generous people I have ever known. He was a wonderful friend to the Sisters of St. Francis, Scecina, and Marian College (now University). When I served as yearbook moderator at Scecina, Gary served as our photographer. What a genuine gentleman and great role model to aspiring photographers. My sincerest condolences to the family.

December 8, 2017

Annie Luellen (Gannon)

My family has known the entire Yohler family for many years through St. Bernadette. Gary sold me my first house and took my wedding pictures. I remember all the times he came back to St. B's to take First Communion pictures including my son's Michael and Phillip. His smile would light up the room. Rest in Peace and know that you have touched many lives.

December 8, 2017

Annie Luellen (Gannon)

December 8, 2017

Ray Moistner

Gary was a unique and soulful being. To Gary, everyone was either already a friend or about to become one. Family, both close and extended was very important to him, as were his memories of family members, which he was happy to discuss anytime. Then there are the lasting memories that Gary created for others, either through cherished photos that he so ably took, or through all kinds of interactions with him. Everybody knew Gary, either though his work as a photographer, or the fire department. Like his dad and uncle, his detailed memory of people and events was unparalled, and went back to his childhood. Just a year or so ago, he came by our house to receive a dining room table that used to belong to his grandparents. Although he hadn't seen the table in well over 60 years, he immediately teared up, then proceeded to point out exactly where every family member sat for dinner when they came to Grandma Yohler and "Pop's" house.You'll be missed, Gary, and I'm glad I got to see you so often in recent years, and that my children had the opportunity to know you.

December 8, 2017

Lisa Yohler

Yohler Family - I'm so sorry for your loss.

December 8, 2017

Missy Cardenas

What a gentle and caring soul the community has lost. I met Gary when he photographed my family, and then started cutting his hair. When he would come in, he never knew a stranger and would talk to anyone he would meet. May your family find comfort in knowing he was so proud of his family and so excited for the arrival of his first Grandbaby. Blessings to you all.

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Memorial Events
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Dec

15

Visitation

3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church

Carmel, IN

Dec

16

Mass of Christian Burial

10:30 a.m.

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church

Carmel, IN

Funeral services provided by:

Little & Sons Funeral Home - Indianapolis

4901 East Stop Eleven Road, Indianapolis, IN 46237

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