Carolyn M. Bartels

Carolyn Marie (Carpenter) Bartels, born July 22, 1936 in Wellsville, Kansas, passed away December 30, 2025.

She was preceded in death by her husband Donald R. Bartels; parents Glen and Lucille Carpenter; and brother Jerry Wayne Carpenter.

She leaves behind four children Michael Wilkins (Gayla) of Ottawa, Kansas, Deeanna Morrison (Mark) of Douglasville, Georgia, Sharolynn Hall (David) of Granbury, Texas, and Jo Lynne Price (Tracey) of Zephyrhills, Florida; five grandchildren; five great grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; two sisters Alice Pond of Belton, Missouri and Dodie Kenney of Hot springs Village, Arkansas; brother Albert Carpenter of Ottawa, Kansas; plus, many wonderful nieces and nephews.

While doing genealogy research for our family in the 1970s, she began researching and writing genealogy books to sell. She absolutely loved history. One thing led to another, and she began researching the Civil War. This research led to a forty plus year Civil War adventure for her.

She became an award-winning author, winning numerous honors and accolades for her work and dedication. She loved it so much she started her own publishing company. She not only printed her books, but she began printing books for other authors as well.

Carolyn had a very interesting life. While Don was working in Egypt, they decided she would join him overseas. Her very first flight ever was to Bern, Switzerland! While there, they went to eat at a local café and mom being born with the gift to gab, was telling the waiter about her trip and looking for places to research. She gave him the family name and he hollered back towards the kitchen, “hey mom, one of your cousins is here!” Carolyn cracked up laughing every time she told that story! It could only happen to her!

Mom, we will miss your laughter, your ability to tell a story, your love of life, and most of all, you. We love you….

A private Graveside Memorial Service will be held for immediate family only at a later date.

To share your memories of Carolyn or to send a special condolence message to her family, please visit the guestbook below.