Spencer F. Trudgen

Spencer Folliott Trudgen, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and cherished physician, passed away peacefully in his home from natural causes on March 24, 2025, at the age of 91. Born on September 12, 1933, in Indianapolis, Indiana, Spencer lived a life marked by service, devotion, and an appreciation for life’s simple things.

Spencer attended Broad Ripple High School, where he formed lifelong friendships, and went on to DePauw University where he met his “Michigan peach,” Thelma, also known as Siter. He later earned his medical degree from Indiana University Medical School and spent his career as an obstetrician, humbly serving generations of Indianapolis families.

He spent formative years in Peoria, Illinois with his grandparents while his father was deployed in the Pacific during World War II. He always spoke fondly of this time. After completing medical school, Spencer served as a physician in the U.S. Army in Germany, an experience that culturally enriched his family’s life.

A man of many interests and sharp wit, Spencer was known for his love of puns, classic films, books, engaging conversation, and music. He was endlessly curious, always eager to share a story or hear someone else’s. Yet, what he loved most was his family and home. Family vacations were spent fishing, reading, and playing games in places like Minnesota, Canada, and Maine. Evenings in his study, affectionately dubbed “book club,” became treasured moments for reading and conversation.

Spencer had a tremendous work ethic and enjoyed being a provider in every sense – creating a home that beckoned his grown children and their families to gather, with the Christmas holidays and summer “cousin weeks” being cherished highlights of those times. His greatest love was his wife, who passed away one year ago. Together, the two shared a love story that will forever serve as an example for the entire family.

He is survived by his sister, Beverly Trudgen; his children, Anne Dillon (John), Julia Ehly (Chris), Valerie Hooton (Doug), and David Trudgen (Kelly); and his 12 beloved grandchildren: Jack, Bob, and Stuart Dillon; Henry, Rae, and Luke Ehly; Jeff, Lauren, Sam, and Spencer Hooton; and Cole and Kate Trudgen.

Visitation for Spencer will be held Friday, July 25, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at St. Luke's United Methodist Church, 100 W. 86th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46260, followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 12:00 PM.