Dr. Donald Jan

Baltzer

Dr. Donald Jan Baltzer, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, physician, and man of faith, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2026, in Carmel, Indiana, just one day shy of his 96th birthday.

Born on November 3, 1930, in Kaylor, South Dakota, Donald was the son of John Baltzer and Nathalia (Mogck) Baltzer. He grew up on a farm in rural South Dakota, where he developed the strong work ethic, perseverance, and appreciation for family and deep values that guided him throughout his life.

Donald attended the University of South Dakota and later earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. During his internship in Pittsburgh, he met the love of his life, Claudeen. They were married in 1961 and shared 64 wonderful years together.

Dr. Baltzer dedicated more than 55 years to the practice of medicine as an anesthesiologist. He was respected not only for his medical knowledge and professionalism, but also for his compassion, humility, and steadfast commitment to caring for others.

Those who knew Donald admired his unwavering dedication to the things he treasured most: his faith, his family, and his profession. He was known for never complaining, accepting life's trials with courage and perseverance, and receiving life's blessings with sincere gratitude to God.

Donald found great joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved traveling, spending time outdoors, relaxing on a sunny patio, and fishing with his grandchildren. Family gatherings, especially holiday celebrations, brought him immense happiness. He was a gifted storyteller who delighted generations with memories of growing up on a South Dakota farm and tales of his adventures fighting forest fires in the rugged backcountry of Idaho during a summer job in his college years.

More than anything, Donald loved his family. He was a devoted husband, a caring father, a proud grandfather, and a cherished great-grandfather whose wisdom, kindness, and gentle presence will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Donald is survived by his beloved wife, Claudeen Baltzer; his daughters, Tara Feldman (Brian) and Jennifer Kelly (Richard); his grandchildren, Brittany Feldman, Kelsey Gauley (Matthew), Michael Feldman (Brailey), Jacob Kelly, Jarrett Kelly, and Sara Kelly; and his great-grandchildren, Lincoln Gauley, Landon Gauley, Lainey Gauley, Rowen Imhoff, Wren Imhoff, Wells Imhoff, Witt Feldman, and Willa Feldman.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Nathalia Baltzer; his brothers, Harvey Baltzer, Lawrence Baltzer, and DeLyle Baltzer; and his beloved daughter, Melanie Baltzer.

The family would like to express their gratitude to all who cared for Donald in his final days.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Simon the Apostle Catholic Church, 8155 Oaklandon Road, Indianapolis, Indiana, followed by a Catholic Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m.

Though his earthly journey has ended, Donald's legacy of devotion to his family, service, perseverance, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." - Matthew 25:23