John F. Kautzman, a well-known 69-year-old Indiana lawyer, died on October 20, 2025. He was a senior partner at Ruckelshaus Kautzman Blackwell Bemis & Duncan LLP and was seen as a mentor by many. He passed away peacefully at home after a courageous battle with cancer.
Jon spent decades defending law enforcement officers and upholding justice across Indiana using his sharply refined legal mind and deep compassion. He was a fearless, fair, and just lawyer who was always true to his word. He always made sure to set new and higher standards in policing with his arguments, which brought about success in his career.
Outside the courtroom, John was also a great teacher and mentor who guided young attorneys with patience, dexterity, and sincerity. A close friend and colleague shared, “He was the kind of lawyer the younger generation should aspire to be.”
Jon’s passing has created a void in the hearts of those who loved him and in the legal world where he spent most of his time as well. Tributes have flooded social media as many share their experience and honor a man who stood for the truth and for justice. His influence in the legal world won’t be waning in the near future.
