Eileen Frances Gaertner

Eileen Frances Gaertner, a devoted homemaker and beloved family matriarch, peacefully passed away in her sleep on October 22, 2025. She was a constant source of love, support, and strength for all who knew her.

Born on January 3, 1945, in Chicago, Illinois, to the late Frank and Marie (Wright) Ringa, Eileen grew up in a vibrant, loving household. She dedicated her life to her family, creating a warm and welcoming home as an amazing homemaker. Her love did not stop there, she poured her soul and love into her two daughters, her son-in-law, three grandsons and also into her four great-granddaughters.

Making time for her family and planning events with everyone was a gift that she bestowed to all. She was also a tireless partner, supporting her late husband, Donald Gaertner, in his various business endeavors throughout their lives. They were fortunate to travel the world together making fond memories.

Her Catholic faith was very important to mom as she used it as a guiding light to navigate her life. Eileen had a love of painting and her love language was food. A running family joke was that she could never cook for less than a small army.

Eileen’s greatest joy was her family. She is lovingly remembered by her two daughters, Gretchen Sasser (Brian) and Kristen Maslak (Joe). Her legacy continues through her three grandsons: Maxwell Martin (Jessica), Alex Martin (Jacqueline), and Samuel Martin. She was also a proud great-grandmother to four little girls: Harmoni, Lillian, Scarlett, and Madeline.

She is survived by her dear siblings, Frank Ringa (Davida), Charles Ringa (Melanie), Sharon Stotz (Kent), and Karen Donnelly (Joe). She will also be deeply missed by her nieces and nephews: Sarah, Jacqueline, Timothy, Michael, Frankie, Vanessa, and Cristina.

Eileen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Donald Gaertner, her parents, Frank and Marie Ringa, and her sister, Susan Stathes.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, October 30, 2025 from 4-7 pm at Leppert Mortuary-Carmel Chapel, 900 N. Rangeline Rd., Carmel, IN and a funeral mass to celebrate Eileen’s life will be held on Friday, October 31, 2025 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church, 14598 Oakridge Rd., Carmel, IN at 11 am, with a visitation at the church beginning at 10 AM.