Indianapolis Legal Community Mourns the Passing of John F. Kautzman, Esteemed Attorney and Devoted Public Servant

Indianapolis Legal Community Mourns the Passing of John F. Kautzman, Esteemed Attorney and Devoted Public Servant

Indianapolis, IN – October 21, 2025 — The city of Indianapolis and its legal community are mourning the loss of one of their most respected and accomplished figures, John F. Kautzman, who passed away peacefully on October 20, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. A revered attorney and tireless advocate for justice, John’s passing marks the end of a remarkable era in Indiana’s legal landscape.

For more than three decades, John F. Kautzman stood as a pillar of integrity, professionalism, and principled leadership in the legal field. His career was defined not only by courtroom victories and high-profile cases, but by his unwavering belief in the rule of law and his deep commitment to serving the public with honor.

John’s journey in the legal world began with a profound sense of duty—to protect the rights of others, to ensure fairness in the justice system, and to raise the standard of legal excellence in Indiana. Known for his calm demeanor, sharp intellect, and ethical compass, he earned the trust of clients, colleagues, judges, and even adversaries in the courtroom.

In 2022, John was honored with the Luminary Award by the Indianapolis Bar Association (IndyBar)—a prestigious recognition reserved for those who have made extraordinary contributions to the legal profession and the greater Indianapolis community. The award not only acknowledged his legal acumen but also celebrated his mentorship, humility, and enduring commitment to bettering the lives of those around him.

“John was the lawyer we all aspired to be,” said a fellow attorney and longtime friend. “Smart, compassionate, and always prepared. But more than that, he was a man of character—someone who never lost sight of the human side of the law.”

Outside the courtroom, John was equally admired as a devoted family man, loyal friend, and quiet force of good in the community. He balanced the demands of a high-profile legal career with a strong commitment to family life, rarely missing a moment with his loved ones. His wisdom, humor, and kindness were constants to those lucky enough to be in his circle.

As a mentor, John shaped the careers of countless young attorneys who sought his guidance and looked to him as a model of legal excellence. He frequently volunteered his time to legal education, professional committees, and bar association initiatives aimed at improving access to justice.

His passing leaves a profound void—not just in law offices and courtrooms, but in the hearts of many throughout Indianapolis and beyond. Yet his legacy will endure in the precedents he helped set, the professionals he mentored, and the integrity he brought to every case and client.

John is survived by his family, who stood by him throughout his life and career and were by his side during his final moments. Their strength, like his, is a testament to the values he lived by every day.

Funeral arrangements are currently being finalized and will be shared with the public in the coming days. Members of the legal community, friends, and residents of Indianapolis are invited to honor his memory, celebrate his legacy, and pay their respects to a man who gave so much to so many.

In Memoriam: John F. Kautzman (195x–2025)
“Justice is not only a concept; it was how John lived.”

For those wishing to honor John’s memory, the family suggests donations be made to the Indianapolis Bar Foundation or a legal aid organization of their choice—causes that John supported passionately throughout his life.

He may be gone, but the light he brought to his profession, his community, and his family will continue to shine for generations to come.