Carl T. Magel

Carl Thomas Magel, age 78, passed away surrounded by his family at his home in South Bend on Monday, July 3, 2023.  Carl was born January 8, 1945, in Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, to the late Charles John and Anna Lois (McGregor) Magel.  He was a graduate of Central Catholic High School in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and later enrolled at the University of Notre Dame where he graduated with his Master’s degree in teaching in 1968.  On July 20, 2002, Carl married Vicky Marshall-Grocke at St. Monica Catholic Church in Mishawaka.

Carl is survived by his wife of over 20 years, Vicky Magel of South Bend and his children Angela (Chad) Buras of Mishawaka, Lesley (Chad) Grocke-Eber and Heather (Dustin) Grocke-Saunders, both of South Bend, Juli Kigar of Midland, Michigan and Tim Hemphill of Mishawaka.  Surviving as well are 16 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and his siblings Lois Jean (Eric) Reidel and Mary Jane Magel, both of Monroeville, Pennsylvania.  Carl was preceded in death by his sister Margaret Imhoff and his granddaughter Emily Thompson.

Visitation will be held from 2-5 pm Sunday, July 9, 2023, at Wells and Cruz Family Funeral Home (formerly Goethals and Wells) in Mishawaka. There will also be one hour of visitation prior to the Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, July 10, 2023, at St. Monica Catholic Church in Mishawaka, with interment to follow in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Osceola.

Carl had a remarkable career in education and touched the lives of countless students, colleagues, and friends. For the first 5 years of his career, Carl dedicated himself to shaping young minds at Coquillard Middle School. Following this, Carl embarked on a 30-year tenure at the University of Notre Dame, where he served as the Director of Publications and Graphic Services. His commitment to excellence and dedication to his craft were evident in every project he undertook. As his final chapter, Carl spent his last seven years at Riley High School, imparting wisdom and guidance to students before his well-deserved retirement in 2010.

Beyond his professional life, Carl's early years as an athlete shaped his character and gave him a lifelong appreciation for sports. He excelled as a wrestler and loved playing softball in Notre Dame’s softball leagues.  Carl also embraced the role of a coach, sharing his knowledge and passion for softball with his sister’s team. He inspired and instilled the values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance in the team and built a foundation for a successful run to the State title.

In his spare time, Carl was an avid reader. His enthusiasm for sports never wavered, as he cheered on his alma mater, Notre Dame and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Carl also enjoyed watching movies and TV shows with his family. Additionally, Carl shared a special admiration for Elvis Presley, as they shared a birthday on the same day.

Most of all, Carl's unwavering faith was a cornerstone of his life. As a longtime member of St. Monica Catholic Church, he found strength and peace in his spiritual beliefs. His faith served as a guiding light, helping him navigate life's challenges and inspiring him to extend kindness and compassion to others.

Above all, Carl will be remembered as a beacon of positivity, care, and kindness. He possessed a warm heart and an open ear, always ready to offer sage advice and support to those in need. Whether it was a student, a colleague, a friend or his family seeking comfort, Carl was there to listen without judgement and give wise advice to them.

In his memory, donations may be made to the Indiana Donor Network.  To light a virtual candle, share a story of Carl’s life, or leave a message of comfort for his family, please follow the links provided on the tribute wall tab above.