Bette Marie Wechsler

d. April 15, 2026

Bette Marie Wechsler, 80, Indianapolis, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, after a valiant battle with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, leaving behind a legacy of love, energy, and deep connection to those around her.

A proud graduate of Pike High School’s Class of 1964, she remained actively involved with her classmates throughout her life, maintaining friendships that spanned more than six decades.

She dedicated many years of her professional career to American States Insurance, later Safeco, where she ultimately retired. Never one to slow down, she went on to become a Starbucks barista, bringing joy to countless customers with her warmth and spirit. She later played a foundational role in opening RISE, the coffee shop at Launch Fishers, where she designed the layout and trained a team of baristas, including three of her granddaughters. It was a place that reflected her personality, welcoming, vibrant, and full of life.

Bette was also a dog lover through and through. She owned and operated All About Dogs Fishers, offering in-home dog sitting and boarding in her own home. Caring for dogs brought her immense joy, and she treated each one as if it were her own.

She was a lifelong and devoted fan of the Indiana Pacers, dating back to the ABA days at the Indiana State Fairgrounds Coliseum. Her passion went far beyond fandom. She wrote and published thoughtful game reviews and tracked player performance and game statistics, combining her love of the game with a sharp analytical mind.

Known for her infectious smile and boundless energy, she had a remarkable ability to make people feel seen, welcomed, and loved. She was the heart of her family, organizing regular gatherings and creating lasting traditions, including the annual “Grandma Day,” a celebration honoring her mother and bringing generations together.

She was the last of her generation, carrying forward the stories, traditions, and spirit of those who came before her.

Bette was preceded in death by her mother, Marie Grace Brenneman (Snyder); her father, William Henry Brenneman; her sister, Eadie Kamp; her brother, Max Brenneman; and her great-grandson, Owen Petry.

She is survived by her son, John Wechsler (Debbie); her daughter, Jodi Petry; her grandchildren, Anthony Petry (Jordan Hess), Allison Petry, Emily Petry, and Grace Wechsler; her great-grandchildren, Xander Petry and Aliza Hinderliter; and her many beloved nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held at Randall & Roberts Fishers Mortuary, 12010 Allisonville Road, Fishers, on Friday, April 24, 2026, from 3 to 5 p.m., with a funeral service immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made in Bette’s memory to K9s For Warriors, 114 Camp K9 Road, Ponte Vedra, FL 32081 (k9sforwarriors.org).

As one friend so beautifully shared, “It is hard not to picture Bette in heaven right now, surrounded by every dog she ever knew and loved, tails wagging and competing for her attention, each one waiting for her loving touch and a well-earned belly rub.”

Condolences: randallroberts.com