Obituary of William A. Garten

William A. “Bill” Garten, 74, of Francesville, IN passed away peacefully from complications of Parkinson’s Disease on Monday, April 25, 2022 at Pulaski Memorial Hospital in Winamac, IN.  He was lovingly surrounded by his wife and two longtime friends.  Bill was born on October 17, 1947 in Shelbyville, IN to the late William L. and Mary [Andrews] Garten.  He graduated from Columbus High School in 1965 and earned a Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s Degree from Indiana State University.  On August 31, 1968, Bill married his high school sweetheart, Jennifer J. “Jenni” Meyer in Columbus, IN. 

Bill began his 18 year career in education as an elementary teacher at Francesville Elementary School in 1970 and spent most of his career teaching history at West Central Middle/High School.   In addition to teaching, he was a student council sponsor and coached baseball, basketball, football, as well as track & field.  Bill also coached several championship Babe Ruth teams.  After retirement, he owned and operated PT Monograms in Francesville for many years. 

Bill was an avid sports fan and proud supporter of West Central Athletics, St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Bears, and Purdue football/basketball.  He enjoyed traveling the world with Jenni.  Bill was a beloved grandfather.  He enjoyed people and had a witty sense of humor.   He will be dearly missed by his friends and family.

He is survived by:

Jennifer J. “Jenni” [Meyer] Garten, Francesville, IN Wife

Jaina Jade Garten, Burlington, IN Granddaughter

Mariah Inomata, Japan Granddaughter

Don (Debbie) Meyer, Florida Brother-in-law

Many Nephews and Cousins

Preceded in death by:

William L. and Mary [Andrews] Garten, Parents

Ashley N. Garten, Infant Daughter

Jeffrey A. Garten, Son

Frank and Mary [Mobley] Meyer, In-Laws

No Services will be held.

Private Burial will take place at Roseland Cemetery in Francesville, IN at a later date.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation or West Central Athletic Department.

Online Tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.

Cremation Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary Querry-Ulbricht Chapel in Francesville, IN.