Mary "Jean" Hartshorn

Mary Eugenie “Jean” Hartshorn, age 97 of Cheshire entered into rest on Sunday, October 4, 2020 at Meridian Manor in Waterbury. She was the devoted wife of the late Willard “Bud” Hartshorn. Mary was born in Waterbury on April 4, 1923, daughter of the late Eugene and Olive (McKinley) Ruda.

She graduated as salutatorian with the last class to attend the Park Road Grammar School, Class of 1936. After graduating from Wilby High School, Class of 1940, Jean worked for the Salvation Army in Waterbury. She was captivated by square dancing and was a member of the Roost Promenaders, she was an active bowler and loved refinishing and chair caning. Jean enjoyed traveling, and visited every state, with the exception of Hawaii.

Jean is the beloved mother of James L. Hartshorn of Litchfield; Bob Hart of HI; Barbara Berdan and her husband, David, Jr. of Prospect; Mary Hartshorn of Southington; and Robert Pratt of Torrington. She also leaves her loving grandchildren, Cybil Berdan and her fiancé, Bryan Booth of Terryville; David Berdan, III and his wife, Jennifer of Waterbury; and Tanya Berdan of Prospect; her cherished great-grandchildren, David Berdan, IV and Tristian Berdan; and her sister-in-law, Roberta “Bert” Biondi of Waterbury. She was predeceased by her great-grandson, Anthony Negron-Berdan; and her sisters, Barbara and Fran.

A Graveside Service will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2020 at 10AM in New Pine Grove Cemetery, 850 Meriden Road, Waterbury. There are no calling hours. The Alderson-Ford Funeral Home of Cheshire has been entrusted with Jean’s arrangements. To view her arrangements online, leave condolences for her family, or share a story, visit www.fordfh.com