Donald L. Lindemann

Donald L. Lindemann, 86, a man of integrity and honesty peacefully passed away surrounded by loved ones on November 1, 2022. Don was born on the Southside of Indianapolis where he met the love of his life LouAnne and they attended Manual High School. Don was driven by furthering his education and earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from Butler University, a Master’s Degree in Accounting from St. Louis University, and a Master’s in Business Administration from Harvard University. Don attained the rank of First Lieutenant serving his country in the Air Force while in St Louis.

Don started his career working at Peat, Marwick, Mitchell & Company, certified public accountants in New York. Although Don interned at Citizens Gas & Coke Utility while at Butler University, he returned to Citizens after completing his education in 1965. From there he worked his way up the ranks in several capacities until 1986 when he was appointed President, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of Citizens until 1998 when he retired. His tenure was well known for an unprecedented level of integrity, open communication with employees and strong relationships with customers. He initiated wide-ranging accomplishments that enhanced the stability of the company, and he played a crucial role in maintaining the Utility’s financial integrity.

Upon Don’s retirement from Citizens Gas & Coke Utility, Mayor Stephen Goldsmith designated December 9, 1998 “Donald L Lindemann Day” in recognition of his accomplishments and initiatives during his years of service.

According to his executive assistant while at Citizens, “I heard so many times employees comment that ‘Don always remembers my name’ or ‘Don knows everybody’s name!’ Don valued open communications with employees.” She continues that Don was always even-tempered. “I do not recall a time that he showed any anger at all.”

Don ranked as an outstanding community leader with services on the boards of institutions and charities too numerous to mention.

“Don’s business suit gave way to a polo shirt and chinos when he left the office to pursue one of his favorite pastimes, life in the outdoors.” Over the years, some of Don’s passions were hunting specifically grouse with his many dogs and spending time on his Putnam County farm with his son, Brad. While the dogs roamed the land, Don and Brad planted over 500 trees on the farm mostly walnut trees.

He and LouAnne enjoyed traveling, playing tennis, antiquing, and attending the Brown County Playhouse in Nashville, IN. And they always enjoyed a big bowl of ice cream.

Don is survived by his loving wife LouAnne Lindemann, Jenny and Sarah (his faithful Brittany Spaniels) and brother William Lindemann (Shirley). He was preceded in death by son Brad Lindemann, daughter Dawn Lindemann, grandson Daniel Lindemann, parents Paul and Pearl Lindemann, and brother Robert Lindemann (Donna).

Many thanks to Missy Wilson, Senior1Care, Paradigm Health, Aging Life Care Consultants and Hooverwood Living for their special care toward Don.

Services will be at Leppert Mortuary at 740 E 86th Street, Indianapolis, on December 9th with visitation from 11:00-1:00 and a short service to follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Veterans, a Humane Society or a charity of your choice.