Brian Engelhardt

Brian Anthony Engelhardt, age 68, of Elwood, IN, passed away Tuesday September 1, 2026, at Community Hospital Anderson. Brian was born August 7, 1958, in La Porte, IN to Robert Lee and Carolyn Ruth (Klok) Engelhardt. He was the oldest of six children. He is survived by his partner of 21 years, Dena Capps Gillam of Elwood, eight children; Dorothy Eberhart, Robert (Lisa) Engelhardt, Diane Alexander, Timothy Smith, Jessica Short, Brian (Josh) Gillam, Bradley (Cassie) Gillam, and Melodi (Brian Hoover) Smith, five siblings; Greg Engelhardt, Melody, Dean (Betsy) Engelhardt, Vanessa (Allen) Gardner and Monica Bradley, 25 grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Carolyn (Klok) Engelhardt.

Brian was a proud veteran of the United States Army and a member of the American Legion Alexandria Post 0087. He was Commander of the American Legion Elwood Post 53 Honor Guard from 2015 thru 2018. Brian loved many things but his true passion was helping others. He was a man who genuinely loved people and devoted his professional life to their care and well-being. He joined the fire service at the age of 18 and served wherever life's adventures took him. His true calling was with EMS, starting out as an EMT and advancing to Paramedic, for a total of 50 years. His work was more than just a career; it was a calling. He ended his watch, September 1, 2026, after 8 years with Frankton EMS, serving both as a Paramedic and Training Officer, where he was affectionately known as "Mad Medic". When not saving lives, Brian was known for his outreach to the homeless, gathering food and supplies to provide for those in need. He also spent 5 years bringing smiles to children every holiday season as Santa. To say he loved Jeeps was an understatement and was a proud member of the Northern Madison County Jeepers. He always made time to enjoy camping, fishing, spending time with his children and his beloved pups, Loki and Bella.

Please join us in celebrating Brian's life at his visitation on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, at the Dunnichay Funeral Home, 1113 South Anderson Street, Elwood, Indiana., cremation to follow. A memorial procession will be held on October 3, 2026 beginning at Frankton Ambulance Service, 110 S Lafayette St, Frankton, IN at 11am and proceed through Elwood, ending at the American Legion Post 53, 220 Main St., Elwood, IN, where he will be honored for his military service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Frankton Ambulance Service and/or American Legion Post 53.

Those who knew Brian are encouraged to share their memories and photographs on the memorial page, where we can collectively remember and celebrate a life lived with purpose, integrity, and a deep sense humanity.