Stan L. Gootee, 69, of Indianapolis, passed away unexpectedly on June 2, 2026, at Community North Hospital following a short illness. He was born February 11, 1957, the only child of Betty Gootee, who preceded him in death.

A 1980 graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in aeronautical engineering, Stan went on to a career as an engineer with the Simon Group, Union Carbide, and Lubs Equipment, earning patents for his designs along the way.

On June 14, 1996, Stan married the love of his life, Marcia — his “baby,” as he always called her. A dedicated husband, he was looking forward to celebrating their 30th anniversary this year. When he married Marcia, he gained two children, Matthew and Meghan, and never once treated them as anything less than his own.

A lifelong NASCAR fan, Stan was known for his love of the sport — and for drag racing, including in the 1933 3-window Ford Coupe he built and restored by hand. He was a devoted dog dad to his shih tzus. Stan had a rare gift for making people feel they’d known him forever — he talked to everyone he met as though they were lifelong friends, and he would drop everything to help someone he loved.

Stan is survived by his wife, Marcia; his children, Matthew Offutt (Mandy) and Meghan Cady (David); five grandchildren; a multitude of friends; and his beloved shih tzus. He will be deeply missed.

A private celebration of life will be held by his wife and children at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations toward Stan’s final hospital and cremation expenses at https://gofund.me/9bd5ba531