Obituary

Sandra (Carlene) Hardinger

March 15, 1938 - August 4, 2025

Carlene, 87, of Lincoln, NE passed away peacefully on August 4th, 2025 surrounded by family. She was born in Hastings, NE to Carl and Opal Barrett.

She was married to Don Hardinger for 65 years. They had 3 children together; Michael Hardinger (deceased), Jeffrey Hardinger and Shari Hardinger. Carlene worked at NBC Bank as a secretary and receptionist in Personal Banking for 25 years. After retiring she and Don spent almost 28 years traveling the country and spending their winters on South Padre Island.

Carlene had an infectious smile, a sweet sense of humor and a kind and generous spirit. She loved her family and told them this often. She was very proud of her grandchildren Dillon and Jarred Hardinger and their accomplishments. Carlene also often spoke of how lucky they were to have such wonderful neighbors. She enjoyed traveling and exploring new places with her family as her children grew up and as her adult family grew. Carlene was a member of Indian Hills Church and the Business and Professional Women’s Group. Carlene loved creating and crafting. She enjoyed making special decorations and cards for every season. She also loved gardening when she was able to be outside.

Carlene is survived by her husband Donald Hardinger, son Jeffrey Hardinger (Denise Hardinger), daughter Shari Hardinger (Mary Livingston), grandchildren Dillon Hardinger and Jarred Hardinger. She was preceded in death by her parents Carl and Opal Barrett, sister Linda Bradley (Barrett), and son Michael Hardinger. Carlene was dearly loved by her niece Diane (Dee Dee) Pisarkiewicz (Frank Pisarkiewicz) and nephew Glenn Bradley (Teresa Bradley).

Celebration of Life will be held at:
Roper & Sons Funeral Home Lincoln, NE
4300 O St · (402) 476-1225
Friday, August 8th at 1:00 PM
(Visitation starting at 12 noon)

Burial following at:
Wyuka Cemetery
3600 O St, Lincoln, NE 68510

In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Nebraska Heart Association.

Link to Service Video: https://vimeo.com/1108454604/899bb8c2ea?share=copy

Services

August8

Visitation

CST

Roper & Sons Midtown Chapel

4300 O St.
Lincoln, NE 68510

(402) 476-1225
August8

Celebration of Life

CST

Roper & Sons Midtown Chapel

4300 O St.
Lincoln, NE 68510

(402) 476-1225

Share a Memory or Condolence

August 7, 2025

Carlene and I have been friends for many years, we graduated at Waverly Ohio High School, 1956, and have remained friends that many years. I was so thankful to have talked with her just a few days ago and we told each other that we loved one other. I will miss our many calls and was so honored that Carlene and Don came back for a few class reunions, so much fun. You will be missed sweet girl, sending hugs to your Don and your children. From the WHS Class of 1956, see you later, you were an important part of our class.

– Betty Stulley Gildow
August 7, 2025

Don, sending my condolences for your loss. this is from one of your classmates from Davenport School…our hometown!! So many memories of growing up there together!! My sister was in your class! Sylva (Lautenschlager) Finke 5426 Knox St Lincoln, Ne

– Sylva (Don) Finke (Lautenschlager)
August 6, 2025

Carlene has been our neighbor for 35 years and we’ve enjoyed her lovely cheerful attitude. Sharing flower starts, plants and garden talk. I miss her already!

– Jerry & Lois Gowler
August 6, 2025

Carlene was the first person to welcome us to our neighborhood. The very first day she asked for prayers for her daughter in Kansas. We just happened to be returning home when the ambulance came as they wheeled her out, we saw the light of the Lord shine over Carlene. She is dancing with Jesus. We will miss her smile.

– Michelle and Patrick Greenwood
August 6, 2025

Shari, We are so very sorry for your loss and send deepest condolences to you and your family. Sending a huge hug from KC!

– Bruce /Matt

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