Dean H. Hartzell, age 75, of Gahanna, died Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at Mt. Carmel East. A man for whom family was everything, he will be dearly missed. His final act of kindness was to give the gift of life as an organ donor
He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Debbi Hartzell; daughter and son-in-law, Melissa M. and Jason Olendese, Seoul, Korea; son and daughter-in-law, Justin and Panhavy Hartzell,Fargo, ND; grandchildren whom he loved dearly, Penny, Vesper, and Oliver Olendese; Sophea and Sovahn Hartzell; brother and sister-in-law, James and Patricia Hartzell, Grand Junction, CO; his sweet and adorable rescued Cavalier, Mabel; and many loving relatives and friends.
Preceded in death by his parents, George H. and Sylvia (Howe) Hartzell.
Retired after 25 years with American Electric Power, he was a tinkerer of everything, a jack of all trades, and an avid LEGO construction specialist. He was a revered member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Funeral Service 10:00 A.M. on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at the Schoedinger Northeast Chapel, 1051 E. Johnstown Road, where friends may call from 4:00 – 7:00 P.M. on Friday, October 9. Bishop Derek Colvin officiating. Interment in Mifflin Cemetery with Military Honors.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish may contribute to the Columbus Cocker Rescue at https://www.columbuscockerrescue.org/ or by mail to PO Box 715, New Albany, OH 43054, in his memory.
