Retired Batesville Fire Chief Passes Away at 95

Chief Donald Weigel served his community for over 40 years.

Donald Weigel. Photo via Batesville Fire and Rescue.

(Batesville, Ind.) - The Batesville community is mourning the loss of retired Fire Chief Donald Weigel. 

Weigel passed away last Sunday at the age of 95. 

The Batesville native devoted 45 years to serving his community, beginning his career with the Batesville Fire Department in 1951. He retired in 1996. 

Throughout his distinguished career, Weigel served as Assistant Fire Chief for many years before leading the department as Fire Chief for the final 18 years of his service. 

According to Batesville Fire and Rescue, Chief Weigel was a founding member of the EMS Division and was one of the first Emergency Medical Technicians to serve the community. He played an instrumental role in building the foundation of the Batesville Fire Department as it is known today. 

"Chief Weigel's dedication to the citizens of Batesville and his commitment to the fire service will never be forgotten. His legacy lives on through the department he helped build, the lives he touched, and the members who continue to serve in his footsteps. Please keep Chief Weigel's family, friends, and all who had the privilege of serving alongside him in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time," reads a statement from Batesville Fire and Rescue. 

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 3, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m., at Weigel Funeral Home in Batesville. A funeral Mass will follow at 1:00 p.m., at St. Louis Catholic Church. 

Memorials can be made to the Batesville Fire and Rescue and the Sisters of Saint Francis in Oldenburg. If unable to attend the visitation, memorials can be sent to Weigel Funeral Home, PO Box 36, Batesville, Indiana 47006.  For online condolences, please go to www.weigelfh.com.