Linda A. Guckenberger

Linda A. Guckenberger, 83, of Columbus, passed away on February 9, 2023, at IU Health Methodist Hospital. Linda was born September 20, 1939, in Columbus, the daughter of John W. and Martha Jeane McCorkle Purdum. She married the love of her life, Jon F. Guckenberger on February 14, 1960. Linda was a 1957 graduate of Columbus High School. She attended Ball State University before returning to Columbus and working in Personnel at Cummins Engine Company. She took time off to raise her four children with whom she spent many days and evenings carting around to various practices, games, and events. Linda was a full-time cheerleader for her family. When her family was relocated to Brazil, South America, due to a job transfer, she took it all in stride. Linda packed up four children ages 18 months to 12 years, a house, and all their belongings. While there, the family enjoyed a new culture, and different foods, visiting new countries, and learning about different ways of life outside of the US. Lifelong friends and memories were made on that beautiful journey. Upon return from Brazil, Linda reentered the workforce. She held various jobs including an administrative assistant, working with Volunteers in Medicine, front office clerk at the Auditor's Office, and working with Ethnic Expo. She shined as the Events Coordinator for Columbus. Her love of different cultures was evident, she was highly respected by those involved with the Ethnic Expo, various Bazaars, and the Indianapolis International Festival. She had a knack for making everyone feel welcome, included, and appreciated. Linda always enjoyed traveling with her husband and her family. Favorite trips included visiting Alaska, exploring Europe, the US, or a quick day trip to someplace new in Indiana. Her favorite was the annual trip to Siesta Key, Florida. She considered this her “Happy Place” where Mama Bird had all of “her chicks” together. A chance to recharge, reconnect with the whole family (sometimes extra “members”), and make new memories. Twenty-plus years of wonderful memories! Linda’s family always came first in her life. She spent many days and evenings supporting various sporting events, band concerts, drama recitals, and graduations. Linda was always willing to travel the extra mile to show her love for her kids and her grandgirls. She was the ultimate mother and Dada. Linda is survived by her husband Jon Guckenberger, her children, Kathryn Ann (Howard) Stahl of Indianapolis, Brian Guckenberger of Columbus, Amy C. (Todd) Garrison of Franklin, Kirk R. Guckenberger of Franklin; grandchildren, Libby Stahl, Alyson Garrison, Kiera, and Ava Guckenberger. She was preceded in death by her parents; and a brother Jack Purdum. A private family viewing was held on February 13, 2023. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, March 19, from 1 pm to 4 pm at Gather Columbus Meeting & Event Venue, 2033 State Street. She will be interred in the Garden of Gethsemane at Garland Brook Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the IU Health Heart and Lung Transplant Program. You are invited to send a message of condolence to the family via the funeral home website: www.jewellrittman.com. Arrangements entrusted to Jewell-Rittman Family Funeral Home.