Jean Denison Schettler

Jean Denison Schettler, of Lanesville, In. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, renowned painter, and tireless advocate for artists and artisans, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2024, surrounded by her loving family at her home on Fire Fly Farm. Born on September 26, 1943, Jean's life was a tapestry of creativity, compassion, and family.

Jean was the daughter of Kenneth Denison and Nona Ralston Denison and was raised in Los Angeles. She attended Banning High School, Wilmington,CA. Jean retired from Bell Industries of 22 years as the first women Vice President. Next, Jean pursued a career in art, becoming a celebrated painter known for her realistic portraits, which are held in museums and private collections across the United States. 

Jean is survived by her husband of 33 years, Karl Schettler, Sr., her children Wes Dischner, Rob Schettler and his wife Jeanne Schettler, Laura Leyman and her husband Jeff Leyman, and Kim Aquiningoc and her husband Delmer Aquiningoc. She is survived by her brothers, Robert Louis Fry and Ronald Leroy Fry.

Jean leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Ryan Aquiningoc, Jon Schettler, Brandi Aquiningoc, Olivia Schettler, Ashley Leyman, Katie Leyman, and Brandi Aquiningoc, her great grandchildren, Maverick Schettler and Remi Schettler, her niece Charlotte Smith, and her nephew Kenny McKinney.

Jean's artistic journey was marked by her commitment to nurturing the talents of others. Through her Firefly Farm Art Studio, she taught and mentored countless aspiring artists, creating a nurturing environment where creativity could flourish. Her dedication to the arts extended beyond her studio; she was a passionate advocate for artists and artisans, playing a significant role in promoting art education and artistic programs.

In the fall of 2012, Jean, alongside Rita Koerber, spearheaded a remarkable project to celebrate Indiana's 200th anniversary-a hand-stitched, commemorative quilt. This quilt, featuring pieces of Harrison County's past, present, and future, became a community endeavor, with sponsors purchasing blocks to support The Artisan Center in Corydon, a non-profit organization promoting the arts in Harrison County. The quilt, upon its completion in 2016, was proudly displayed by the Harrison County Historical Society in the county museum, showcasing Jean's artwork and the rich history of Corydon. Jean also has her artwork displayed seasonally at the Library of Congress. Her fiber art has won her 2 Grand National Champion and multiple other placements through Herschners, she always had the need to create!

Jean's apparent love for animals showed in her painting creations. Her paintings have won multiple awards across the globe. She donated her paintings to raise funds for multiple animal rescue organizations.

A private celebration of Jean's life will be held for the family. A public celebration of her life and artworks will be planned for the near future. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Corydon Animal Shelter in Jean's honor, continuing her legacy of generosity and care.

Jean Denison Schettler will be remembered for her boundless love, her gentle spirit, and her unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

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