Meet Dick and Jan Lautzenheiser
Dick grew up in Berne, Indiana, and Jan in Freeman, South Dakota—both small, close-knit Mennonite communities. They met as students at Bluffton University in Ohio and married in 1968, beginning a lifelong journey of service, faith, and family.
Dick knew from the age of five that he wanted to be a doctor. After graduating from Bluffton, he attended medical school at Indiana University and later received a fellowship in rheumatology at the University of Cincinnati. He and his medical partner became the first physicians in Indiana to be board certified in rheumatology. Dick went on to practice medicine in Indianapolis for 50 years before retiring.
Jan majored in education and taught second grade for several years before staying home to raise their three children—Stacy, Jen, and Mark. Though she originally planned to return to teaching, a new opportunity came when Bob Zehr invited her to work at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre. There, she opened and managed the gift shop for 18 years.
After settling in Indianapolis, the family first attended Orchard Park Presbyterian Church. But they sought a neighborhood church where their children could grow alongside classmates. A friend recommended St. Luke's, and in 1981, they found their spiritual home.
Jan quickly became active in the church community, joining the New Song women's choir and later the chancel choir. She also taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School and supported the Fletcher Place ministry. At the request of Carver McGriff, Dick served on the Staff Parish Relations Committee and was twice instrumental in pastoral leadership transitions—first helping bring Kent Millard to St. Luke's, and later playing a key role in selecting Rob Fuquay as his successor. Today, Dick continues his service as a Stephen Minister and a regular volunteer at the Crooked Creek Food Pantry.
Their shared passion for service and discovery has taken them around the world. Through St. Luke's, they've participated in medical mission trips to Honduras and Haiti, as well as numerous choir tours. On their own, they've explored more than 60 countries across Europe, Africa, South America, and North America. Time with their children and four grandchildren—three of whom now attend Indiana University—is among their greatest joys.
"St. Luke's has been very instrumental in our lives," Jan shares. "It's been a great source of support, learning, friendship, and spiritual growth. The music ministry has been especially enriching, and we love that St. Luke's is such a welcoming, service-minded community."
Because of this deep connection, Dick and Jan have included St. Luke's in their estate plans.
Just as St. Luke's has been a blessing to Dick and Jan, they have been a blessing to St. Luke's—faithfully sharing their time, talents, and resources. They hope their estate gift will continue to support the church's music ministry and the work of the Staff Parish Relations Committee, ensuring strong spiritual leadership and joyful worship for generations to come.
St. Luke's is pleased to recognize Dick and Jan Lautzenheiser as members of St Luke's Legacy Society. If you would like more information on how you too can become a member, contact David Heetland, pastor of planned giving, at [email protected] or 317.399.6202.
