Lewis Brubaker Obit Lafayette Indiana: Remembering a Life of Purpose and Community Impact
Introduction
In the heart of Lafayette, Indiana, the name Lewis Brubaker resonates with a legacy of leadership, compassion, and unwavering dedication to community upliftment. His passing marks the end of an era but also invites a reflection on a life lived with profound purpose. This article honors the memory of Lewis Brubaker, delving into who he was, his accomplishments, values, and the indelible mark he left on the community.
Who Was Lewis Brubaker?
Lewis Brubaker was more than a local businessman—he was a community pillar, a mentor, a philanthropist, and above all, a man who believed in the power of people. Born in 1950 in Lafayette, Indiana, Brubaker was a native son of the Hoosier state who remained connected to his roots throughout his life.
After completing his early education in Lafayette public schools, Brubaker pursued a degree in Business Administration at Purdue University, a prestigious institution close to home. This academic foundation equipped him with the knowledge and insight to take over his family’s small manufacturing business, which he transformed into a thriving local enterprise that employed dozens and supported countless families.
Early Life and Values
Growing up in a modest household, Lewis Brubaker learned the values of hard work, integrity, and generosity early on. His father, a World War II veteran and machinist, and his mother, a schoolteacher, instilled in him the importance of education, community, and empathy. These principles would become the compass that guided his every decision—personal and professional.
As a young man, Brubaker was known for his discipline and drive. His entrepreneurial instincts were evident even in college, where he helped organize student-led community service events and fundraising initiatives. He was the kind of student who always showed up, whether for a business pitch or to help a friend in need.
Business Leadership and Economic Contribution
Brubaker’s business, Brubaker Manufacturing Inc., began as a local machine parts shop and grew under his leadership into a regional supplier of custom precision components. Despite the pressures of outsourcing and automation, Brubaker remained committed to local production and job creation.
He made it a point to hire from within Lafayette, offering training programs to under-skilled workers and internships for local high school students. His business ethos wasn’t just about profits—it was about people.
His company became known not only for quality work but also for its culture of respect and opportunity. Brubaker emphasized work-life balance, fair wages, and benefits—uncommon for a small business in the manufacturing sector. These efforts earned him accolades from business associations and the heartfelt gratitude of his employees.
Civic Engagement and Philanthropy
Lewis Brubaker believed that success meant little if it wasn’t shared. He was heavily involved in Lafayette’s civic and charitable landscape. He served on the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce for over a decade, where he championed small business policies and youth employment programs. He was a founding donor and board member of the Lafayette Education Foundation, funding scholarships and after-school programs for underserved students.
He also played a pivotal role in supporting local food banks and shelters. Brubaker was known to personally deliver goods to families during the holidays, and he never missed a fundraising dinner for organizations that mattered to him.
Educational Advocacy
Education was close to Brubaker’s heart, thanks in part to his mother’s influence. He frequently donated to Purdue University and local public schools. In 2002, he funded the renovation of a local high school library, which was renamed in honor of his parents. He also spearheaded a mentorship program pairing business professionals with high school students interested in trades and entrepreneurship.
His belief in education as a tool of empowerment was reflected in his consistent support for initiatives that connected academic theory with real-world practice.
Family and Personal Life
Behind the community accolades and business achievements was a devoted family man. Lewis Brubaker married his college sweetheart, Carol, in 1973. Their 50-year marriage was filled with mutual support and shared values. Together, they raised three children, all of whom inherited their parents’ sense of responsibility and service.
Brubaker was a hands-on father and grandfather. He attended every school play, soccer match, and science fair. His favorite pastime was storytelling—recounting tales of Lafayette’s history or his adventures in business to his grandchildren. His home was known for its warmth, laughter, and open doors.
Faith and Moral Compass
Lewis Brubaker was a man of quiet but steadfast faith. A lifelong member of the Lafayette United Methodist Church, he served on the church board and frequently participated in its community outreach efforts. His moral compass, deeply rooted in Christian values of compassion, humility, and service, shaped the way he interacted with others.
A Community Mourns
The passing of Lewis Brubaker was met with an outpouring of grief from the Lafayette community. His funeral, held at the historic First United Methodist Church, drew hundreds—from business leaders and politicians to former employees and students. Stories shared at the service painted a portrait of a man who touched lives in myriad ways, often without seeking recognition.
In his eulogy, one speaker captured it best: “Lewis didn’t just build a business—he built people. He didn’t just live in Lafayette—he gave Lafayette life.”
Enduring Legacy
Lewis Brubaker leaves behind a living legacy. The businesses he nurtured, the students he mentored, and the community he uplifted all continue to benefit from the foundation he built. His family has pledged to continue his work, establishing the Lewis Brubaker Foundation, dedicated to supporting education, small business development, and community wellness.
Plans are also underway to name a section of the Lafayette Riverwalk in his honor—a fitting tribute to a man who believed in building bridges and creating pathways for others.
Conclusion
Lewis Brubaker’s story is a testament to the profound impact one individual can have when guided by purpose, integrity, and love for their community. His life’s work serves as a blueprint for responsible leadership and civic duty. Though he may have departed, the values he championed continue to echo across Lafayette.
As the city moves forward, it does so on the shoulders of giants like Lewis Brubaker. May his story inspire not just those who knew him, but generations to come who will walk the paths he paved.
This article is published by Mating Press, a platform committed to honoring legacies that matter.
