Ethan Zane Shorter

Ethan Zane Shorter, age 24, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, October 22, 2026. He was born on March 10, 2002, in Terre Haute, Indiana, to Kellie Baugh and Chad Shorter. He was raised by Robert and Kellie Baugh in Terre Haute until the family moved to the Evansville/Newburgh, Indiana, area in 2010.

Growing up, Ethan enjoyed playing baseball and participating in Boy Scouts, where he earned badges and took part in the Pinewood Derby. He proudly brought home a trophy for winning the derby. He also wrestled for both Castle Middle School and Castle High School. Music became another important part of Ethan’s school years. He played clarinet in the school band and, upon entering high school, joined the Castle Marching Knights. Through marching band, he participated in numerous Bands of America competitions, including Grand Nationals. These experiences created lasting memories and friendships that he carried with him throughout his life.

Outside of school, Ethan had a love for adventure and the outdoors. He enjoyed hiking, exploring caves, fishing, and riding his skateboard. He also loved playing Minecraft, cooking, and experimenting with new recipes. Whether he was exploring somewhere new,
casting a fishing line, or trying something different in the kitchen, Ethan always found ways to keep life interesting.

Some of Ethan’s most treasured moments were spent with his nephews, CJ, Korben, and Trace, who affectionately called him “Uncle Ernie.” He loved playing and fishing with them whenever they came to visit. The special bond they shared brought him so much joy, and the memories they made together will be cherished for years to come.

Ethan was fortunate to experience many adventures through travel. His travels took him to Florida on multiple occasions, New York City, Buffalo, Philadelphia, Northern and Southern California, New Orleans, Disneyland, Disney World, and South Carolina. One
especially meaningful trip was to Parris Island, South Carolina, where he proudly watched his cousin Walter graduate from Marine Corps boot camp. Ethan was incredibly proud of Walter and grateful to be there to share in such an important milestone.

Ethan was quick-witted and had a wonderful sense of humor. He loved telling jokes, pulling pranks, and making people laugh. He even had his own 15 minutes of fame when he told a joke on live television during the Fall Festival in Evansville. If you know, you know!

Ethan was never afraid to be authentically himself, through the good times and the bad. He had a knack for getting injured in the most bizarre ways, often resulting in some pretty interesting trips to the emergency room. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and
had a personality that was entirely his own. Those who knew Ethan will remember his humor, his adventurous spirit, his willingness to help others, and the many unforgettable stories that could only come from being Ethan.

Since 2022, Ethan had worked at Cafe Arazu in Newburgh, Indiana, as a cook and jack-of all-trades. The owner and his fellow employees loved and cared for him as though he were part of their own family. His time at Cafe Arazu meant so much more than just having a job; it was a place where he was welcomed, appreciated, and genuinely loved.

Ethan is survived by his mother, Kellie Baugh, and her husband, Robert (Bobby) Baugh; his sister, Hillary, and her husband, Charlie, and his beloved nephews, CJ, Korben, and Trace; his brother, Trenton Stone; and his other siblings, Taylor Baugh (Jordan), Jordan (Connor) Donohue, Alivia Campbell, Karissa (Alec) Baumgartner, Matthew (Ashlee) Baugh, and Makayla Arney.

He is also survived by his grandparents, Beverly Stone, Walter and Debbie Hires, Eric and Anne Baugh, and Therese Fischer; uncles Shawn Shorter and Brandon Shorter; cousin Brinna Shorter; Aunt Stephanie (Ralph), Malyssa, and Hunter; cousin Walter (Annabelle)
and Jasmine; Aunt Misty (Kevin) Rogers; Aunt Denise Houghton; cousin Samantha Houghton; and cousins Kacey Liles (Chris Auld), Riley, and Liles Mattox.

Ethan also leaves behind his special family, including his “Canadian Grandma,” Karen Phillips, and aunts Alyssa Applegate, Heather Phillips, and Missie Bailey (Raelynd), all of whom held a special place in his life.

Ethan was preceded in death by his father, Chad Shorter; his grandfathers, Dexter Stone (“Papa”) and David Shorter (“Grandpa”); his grandmother, Brenda Shorter (“MiMi”); his great-grandmothers, Betty Helt, Dixie Shorter, and June Baugh; his uncle, Josh Houghton;
and his grandmother “Dani,” Danielle MacMullen Sherman.

A Celebration of Life honoring Ethan will be held on Sunday, November 22, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at:
Cafe Arazu
17 West Jennings Street
Newburgh, IN 47630

Family and friends are invited to come together to share memories, stories, laughter, and love as they celebrate Ethan’s life.

Ethan’s life was far too short, but it was filled with experiences, adventures, accomplishments, laughter, and people who loved him. He leaves behind countless memories, stories that will continue to be told, and a personality that will never be duplicated.

He will forever be loved, deeply missed, and remembered for exactly who he was—authentically and unapologetically Ethan.