James Allen Lindauer, 84, died peacefully on December 7, 2024. Jim was born October 26, 1940, and preceded in death by his father Walter Lindauer of Huntingburg, his mother Irene Polen and stepfather Don “Butch” Polen of Otwell. Survivors include his wife Linda and son Jeffrey Allen Lindauer (Angela) and two grandchildren Chelsie Lea and Joshua Allen. Other survivors include a half brother Sam Polen of Petersburg, two half sisters Patty Polen Ingle and Judy Polen Schnarr and stepmother, Virginia Polen.
After graduating from Otwell High School in 1958, Jim enlisted in the United States Air Force for four years and served in Texas, Mississippi, and Alaska. While serving in Alaska as a Morse Intercept Operator, he also worked at a Pepsi plant in Anchorage and picked carrots in the Matanuska Valley.
Following an Honorable Discharge, he enrolled at Oakland City College and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education. While teaching and coaching basketball at West End Elementary, Jim completed a Master of Science degree and an Elementary Administration Certification from Indiana State University. Jim retired from Washington Community Schools in 1996 after serving 6 years as an elementary teacher and 24 years as principal at West End Elementary and Lena Dunn Elementary. At the time of his retirement a street near Lena Dunn Elementary was named Lindauer Drive.
Jim was active in the National and State Principal’s Association, served as President and was named the District VIII Principal of the Year in 1984. He was a member of the Daviess County Child Protection Team and served several years on the Board of Trustees for the Carnegie Public Library in Washington, Indiana.
In 2005, Jim and Linda moved to Bloomington to enjoy their grandchildren. His life was blessed and full of enjoyment being near family and involved in their many events and activities as they grew up. Always active, Jim enjoyed traveling, playing tennis and golf, walking, and riding his bike.
At Jim’s request, he will be cremated with a small family and friends memorial service and celebration of life at Montgomery Cemetery, Oakland City at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a gift in his memory to the charity of your choice.
Allen Funeral Home and Crematory have been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with family and friends at www.allencares.com.
