Norine E. Hartzler, 88, of Brookston, passed away at 9:17 p.m. Monday, August 31, 2026, at Franciscan Health of Lafayette.

  Norine was born on March 27, 1938, in Port Arthur, Texas, to the late Lawrence G. and Marie M. (Ebert) Boyts. She and her future husband, Larry, were members of the Goshen High School Class of 1956. Norine graduated from Ball State University in 1960 with a degree in Nursing and began her career as a Registered Nurse at Goshen Hospital. It was during her senior year at Ball State that she and Larry Hartzler, then a young funeral director, began dating. They were married on September 25, 1960, in Goshen, and shared nearly 64 years of marriage.

  In 1961, Norine and Larry spent two years in Germany while Larry served as a Supply Clerk in the United States Army.  Norine had a lifelong love of travel, and their time exploring Europe quickly became a wonderful adventure.  

  On July 1, 1965, Larry and Norine purchased the Thompson Funeral Home in Brookston from Paul and Bessie Thompson, embracing the responsibility of continuing a legacy of exceptional service. Over the next 38 years, they cared for their community with dignity, professionalism, and genuine kindness. They were known for placing the needs of others above their own, serving with humility and quiet compassion. Norine and Larry were inseparable in every chapter of life, and their work at the funeral home reflected that same unity.

    Norine was a devoted member of the Federated Church of Brookston, giving her time through committee work and sharing her voice in the choir. She found joy in music, in playing bid euchre with Larry and friends, and in her cherished collection of Hummel figurines. Ever eager to explore, Norine loved traveling and embraced any adventure—big or small, even spontaneous day trips.

  Surviving are her children, Michelle Weiler (Tim) of Cincinnati, OH and Troy Hartzler (Mischelle) of Brookston; a sister, Carol Cameron and a grandson, Matthew Bolin (Nicole) of Whitestown.  Norine cherished spending time with her family, especially her three great-grandchildren, Hadley, Blakely and Jayce.  Also surviving is a nephew, Layne Cameron (Sandy).

  Preceding her in death with her husband, Larry, is a nephew, Todd Cameron.

 Friends may call from 11 a.m. until the time of funeral service at 1 p.m. Thursday, September 3, 2026, at Hartzler-Clapper Funeral Home (101 West 4th St.  Brookston, IN); Rev. David Doles and long-time friend, Rev. Dr. Lelan D. McReynolds to officiate.  Interment to follow in Spring Creek Cemetery of rural Brookston.  

  Memorials may be given in Norine’s name to the Brookston Federated Church “Sleep In Heavenly Peace” program or Spring Creek Cemetery.

Her friends at Hartzler-Clapper Funeral Home are honored to provide services for Norine.