Aileen Laura Hartleroad

Aileen Laura Hartleroad, 95, of Kokomo passed away on Monday, April 28, 2025, at her home.  She was born on April 7, 1930, in South Bend, the daughter of Clarence and Olvie (Pfeiffer) Hoover.  Aileen graduated from Peru High School in 1948.  On August 7, 1949, she married Ronald Joseph Hartleroad, who preceded her in death on December 15, 1976.  She was a member of New Hope Church, formerly Indian Heights Baptist where she volunteered at the food pantry.

Aileen was an employee of General Motors for over thirty years before retiring in 1999.  During those same years, she helped start and run Leisure Time Studios where she pursued and shared her love of ceramics.  After retiring, Aileen worked as a housemother at Nesting Doves, a Christian unwed mothers home, helping many young single mothers.  Later, with her daughter, she would run The Stitchery Garden, a custom apparel business.

Aileen enjoyed gardening, quilting and cooking.  Her potato soup was a particular favorite among food pantry volunteers. Her grandchildren loved her amazing cinnamon rolls and special oatmeal cookies that she made.

Her home was always an open door, a safe place for fellowship and laughter.  An amazing mother and grandmother, Aileen will be missed by many friends and family.

Aileen is survived by her children, Susan (Glen) Gamblin, Jay Hartleroad, and Tim Hartleroad; grandchildren, Laura (Brian) Fidler, Melissa (Andy) Starrett, Kayla (Ricky) DesChamps, Chris Hartleroad, and Samantha (Will) Schaefer; great-grandchildren, Zachary Starrett, Ashton (Kaylie) Starrett, Collin (Sahara) Starrett, Caleb Starrett, Ava Fidler, Evan Fidler, Emerson DesChamps, Matthias Starrett, Mason Schaefer, Paige Fidler, Claire Fidler, Harper Starrett, Sawyer DesChamps; 6 great-great-grandchildren; and siblings, Marilyn Harris and Darle (Brenda) Hoover.

Along with her husband, Ronald Hartleroad, Aileen was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Olvie Hoover; daughter-in-law, Mia Hartleroad; and sister, Margie Helton.

A memorial service will be held at 3:30 pm on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at New Hope Church. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 2:00 pm until the time of service on Saturday, at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to New Hope Church in Aileen’s name. Stout & Son Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.stoutandson.com.

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