Dorothy Jane Gehlhausen

Dorothy Gehlhausen, age 63, left us unexpectedly and far too soon. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones on Thursday, June 22, 2023. Her departure has left a void in our hearts that will forever be filled with fond memories and the warmth of her love.

Born and raised in Evansville, Dot was an alumna of Reitz Memorial High School and the University of Evansville. Her education laid the foundation for a successful career, but it was her inherent kindness and generosity that truly set her apart.

Dot dedicated her professional life to the field of Human Resources, where she provided compassionate support and advocacy for the many employees she served. Her commitment to the well-being of others was evident in her work. Through her empathetic nature and genuine care, she touched the lives of countless co-workers, leaving a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to have known her.

A firm believer in the power of development of young people, Dot provided decades of service to the Boy Scouts of America at the local and national levels. She positively influenced the lives of thousands of children, young adults, and adult volunteers, imparting upon them values of integrity, leadership, and camaraderie. Her personal motto was to “serve as many youth as possible, for as long as possible.”

Dot had an immense love for animals. Her compassion extended beyond words as she actively rescued, fostered, adopted, and supported countless animals in need. This profound adoration for animals became a shared passion within her family; an enduring legacy that will continue to touch the lives of creatures great and small.

As a proud and devoted mother, Dot instilled in her children a sense of kindness, strength, competence, and compassion. She empowered them to become exceptional individuals and her love and guidance will forever shape their lives.

In her leisure time, Dot found joy in simple pleasures such as playing Scrabble, exploring the outdoors, and spending quality time with her beloved family. These moments of togetherness were filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories.

Dot is preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Mary Lou Biggs, her brother John Biggs, and her nephew Evan Halford. She is survived by her loving husband, Keith Gehlhausen, her children Jonathan, Margaret (Meg), and Suzanne, and their spouses Heather, Jordan, and Joel, respectively. She is also survived by her dear siblings Carolyn Biggs, Nancy Overdeck, Paul Biggs, Thomas Biggs, Sarah Murphy, Joan Halford, and Steve Biggs.

In honor of Dot's lifelong commitment to the well-being of others, the family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to the Buffalo Trace Council and Dogs and Cats of the Dominican Republic. These causes reflect her deep-rooted passions and will continue to bring positive change to the lives of those in need.

Donations to the Scouts can be sent to the Buffalo Trace Council, Boy Scouts of America, 3501 E. Lloyd Expressway Evansville, IN 47715. Please make checks payable to “Buffalo Trace Council, BSA” and include “Dorothy Gehlhausen Memorial Gift” in the memo line.

Donations to the Dogs and Cats of the Dominican Republic can be made at https://dogsandcatsdr.kindful.com/ On the “Select a campaign” dropdown, please select “In memory of..” and follow the instructions to add your payment information and a note to Dot’s memory.

Please join us on Friday, June 30, 2023 in your colorful clothing to celebrate and honor Dot’s life. A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to noon at the University of Evansville’s Neu Chapel with a memorial service to follow. Parking is available at Lot N and S. Rotherwood Ave. Following the service, a reception will be held at Eykamp Hall in the Ridgway University Center. For those unfamiliar with the University campus, please use this interactive map: https://www.evansville.edu/campusmap/index.cfm

Though she may be physically absent, the impact Dot had on our lives will endure. Her legacy of compassion, love, and fierce advocacy for others will continue to inspire us as we navigate the path ahead. May her soul find eternal peace and may her memory be a blessing to us all.

Condolences may be offered online at www.AlexanderEastChapel.com.