Frances Pauline “Fran” Hartz, age 82, of Shelby, died Wednesday morning, November 11, 2026, at Ontario Estates Senior Living.
Fran was born October 17, 1944, in Willard, Ohio, to the late Marcel and Hilda (Schodorf) Roesch. A graduate of Willard High School, Fran married the love of her life, Raymond M. “Ray” Hartz, on July 31, 1965 and together they shared 54 years of marriage before Ray’s passing on November 29, 2019.
Fran worked for many years at Wagner Hardware. A devoted member of Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Shelby, Fran shared her love of music and faith through her involvement in the church’s music ministry. What began as a passion for playing the piano and organ and singing in the church choir eventually became a career at the parish, where she dedicated many years to its music program.
Fran loved a good game of cards, especially Euchre and Rummy, and enjoyed challenging herself with word finds and Sudoku puzzles. She also had a love for gardening and found great enjoyment tending to her flowers. When her children were young, Fran was involved in Mother’s Club, and she also enjoyed sewing. Fran and Ray shared a love for antique tractors and were longtime members of the Buckeye Iron Will Club.
Family was at the heart of Fran’s life, and she was especially proud of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Whether cheering from the stands at a sporting event, attending a choir or band concert, or showing up for whatever activity they were involved in, Fran was always one of their biggest supporters. She took great pride in their accomplishments, and being present for the special moments in their lives meant the world to her.
Fran is survived by her children: Catherine (Jamie) Montee, Marc (Beth) Hartz, and Christine (Matt) Hoff; grandchildren: Nathan (Ashlee) Craig, Zackary (Ally) Hartz, Tanner Hartz (Ellie Miller), Conner Hartz, Tiffany Hoff, and Jeremy Hoff; great grandchildren: Warner, Pacen, Maela, and Elliot; sisters: Margaret Marie and Ruth Ann Hay; sister-in-law: Margie Baird; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. In addition to her parents and husband, Fran was preceded in death by 2 infant sons: Christopher and Ronald Hartz; and brother: James Roesch.
Family and friends are welcome on Thursday, November 19, 2026 from 4-7pm at the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, November 20, 2026 at 11:00 am at Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 29 West Street, Shelby with Fr. Chris Mileski celebrating. Burial will immediately follow in the church cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Shelby High School Performing Arts Department in care of the Shelby City Schools.
Condolences may be left on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or Facebook page.
Funeral Home: Penwell Funeral Home
Website: PenwellFuneralHome.com
