Sue Hartenstein

Carolyn “Sue” Hartenstein, 79, of Fremont, OH passed away Thursday, August 20, 2026 at home surrounded by her loving family. Sue was born in rural Carey, Ohio as the third child of Walter and Maxine (Bame) Roynon. Sue graduated from Carey High School in 1964. Members of her class still meet monthly on the first Saturday to enjoy a meal together. Sue often brought her husband Mike along as they both enjoyed these gatherings.

The year 1967 found Sue graduating from Toledo Hospital School of Nursing. Similar to her high school classmates, several members of this group of ladies remained close friends and maintained monthly connections through the many years. As their 60th graduation anniversary fast approaches, the girls still gather for lunches out at a venue of interest, including summer pool parties, giving them all a chance to exchange the latest news with one another.

Sue’s love and care for others and attention to details played well with her Nursing career of 36 years. She worked briefly for Toledo Hospital, Fremont Memorial Hospital and Green Springs Villa then enjoyed a 33 year stint at Saint Bernardine Home. Per her norm, she gained more lifetime friends among the staff and residents of St. Bernardine. Numerous times in her children’s lives she hosted, in her home, recovering family members or friends, while each recovered from surgery or injury. In support of young women of the community, she volunteered with Heartbeat of Fremont for several years.

Sue loved the Lord and she loved others, always supporting friends and charities as she was able. Even when Sue faced her own struggles in health, her faith and her relationship with the Lord remained extremely important to her.

Prior to the onset of her illness, she always had the perfect greeting card for whatever occasion or situation. Time with babies or young kids really brightened her day. She always enjoyed the challenge of a good crossword or an especially tough Sudoku. Though reading romance novels and mysteries were a favorite pastime, she did like to catch an occasional Hallmark movie while doing housework.

Left to cherish her memory are her beloved husband of 56 years Michael, children Kristen (Carl) Miller, Craig, and Eric (Melissa), grandchildren Sydney Miller and William Hartenstein, sisters Joyce Crist and Mary Bonds, brother-in-law Carl Scranton, sister-in-law Nancy Beck and many nieces and nephews.

Sue was preceded in death by her parents, sisters Artis Scranton and Donna (Joel) Harris, brother James Roynon, brothers-in-law Jerry Crist and Jerry Bonds.

Special thanks to Father Kris Kardzis, Monsignor Tad Oxley, and Hospice Chaplain Pastor Kevin for excellent spiritual support. Also special thanks to the Bridge Hospice staff for their care and attention to Sue’s medical needs. The family is also extremely thankful and grateful to the multitude of family and friends who have supported us with love, hands-on assistance, food and attention to chores throughout Sue’s illness. The prayers of these many have buoyed us through this trying time and are so very much appreciated!

Visitation: Tuesday, August 25, 2026 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Wonderly Horvath Hanes Funeral Home and Crematory, 425 E State St., Fremont, OH. A vigil will begin at 7 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial: Wednesday, August 26, 2026; 10 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 550 Smith Rd., Fremont, OH with an hour of visitation prior to the service at the church.

Interment: St. Joseph Cemetery, Fremont, OH

Memorials may be made to Sacred Heart Parish, Carey Memorial Evangelical Church, St. Bernardine Home or whatever charity a donor may choose