Harry David Karlen

SALEM — Harry David Karlen, cherished by all who knew him, was born on Jan. 3, 1936, in Alliance, Ohio, and went to his eternal rest on May 28, 2026, after a full 90 years of life. He was the son of Norman and Clara (Miller) Karlen, and from an early age carried the steady character of someone who put the needs of others before his own.

For 40 years, Harry helped make travel easier and safer in Goshen Township as supervisor of the road department. He viewed his work not simply as a job, but as service to his neighbors and community. On March 31, 1995, he retired and was honored for his four decades of service at a celebration at Bunker Hill United Methodist Church. Following retirement, he continued working for Myers Equipment for another 14 years.

On June 15, 1958, Harry married Naomi (Goehring) Karlen, beginning a partnership that would span nearly 68 years and become the foundation of the family and life they built together. During those early years, Harry also served his country in the Army for two years, stationed at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico, as they began building a life rooted in faith, family, and hard work.

He was a 4-H advisor for 10 years, helping shape young lives with patience and wisdom. He and his family also devoted countless hours to caring for community cemeteries, baseball fields, and soccer fields. In recognition of his dedication and impact, the Harry Karlen Soccer Field was named in his honor. Harry enjoyed farming and home improvement projects, and those who knew him well understood that he liked things done right. Remodeling projects became a regular part of the home he and his family moved into in May 1964, turning it into a place filled with care and lasting memories.

He was a longtime member of Bunker Hill United Methodist Church, where he sang in the choir and served as a trustee for several years.

Harry is lovingly remembered by his wife, Naomi Karlen. He is also survived by his children, Sherry (Chuck) Stanley of Ocala, Florida, Darlene Woodruff of Highland Heights, Ohio, Laurie (Sam) Ronshak of Lisbon, Ohio, and Gene Karlen (Ron Meinen) of Frenchtown, New Jersey. His grandchildren include Christian (Jessica) Stanley of Winter Springs, Florida, Jacob (Jordan) Stanley of Dothan, Alabama, Karli Ronshak (fiance Steven Walden) of Lisbon, Ohio, and Jenna (Mihai) Aron of Canfield, Ohio. He was further blessed by his great-grandchildren, Sozo Stanley, and soon-to-be great-granddaughter Athena Walden. He is also survived by his siblings, Denis (Barb) Karlen of Salem, Ohio, Delmar (Brenda Smallwood) Karlen of Hanoverton, Ohio, and Linda (Ron) Bandy of Beloit, Ohio.

He was preceded in death by his grandson Todd Stanley, son-in-law Henry Woodruff, his siblings Norma Smith and Edward Karlen, his brothers-in-law Gerald Goehring, Dale Goehring, James Higgins, and Thomas Timlin, and his sister-in-law Katherine Timlin.

Harry leaves behind a legacy of service and devotion to family and community. He cared deeply and lived a life that touched many people. He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Amivie and Home Instead caregivers and the entire care team at Hospice of the Valley Hospice House. We witnessed firsthand a team deeply dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Their compassion, kindness, and support provided exceptional care for Harry while bringing comfort and strength to our family. We are profoundly grateful for the dignity and humanity they extended to us.

A Funeral Service will be held Saturday, June 6, 2026 at 11 a.m. at Bunker Hill United Methodist, where friends and family will be received from 10 to 11 a.m. at the church.

If you are unable to attend, you may show your support by joining our complimentary “Hugs from Home” program at www.starkmemorial.com/hugs-from-home.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Bunker Hill United Methodist Church, 15096 W. Middletown Rd., Beloit, OH 44609.

Arrangements are being handled by Stark Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

To view Harry’s obituary, send condolences visit www.starkmemorial.com.

6/1/26