Nina Mari Hartley

Nina Mari Hartley

Nina Mari Hartley, loving wife and mother, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Sunday, September 5, 2021.

Nina was born on September 23, 1960 in San Francisco, California to William and Olga Scharninghausen. She grew up in San Rafael, California, and graduated from San Rafael High School. She earned a bachelor’s degree in home economics from Sacramento State University. She began her career in retail and then continued her education, majoring in early childhood education at Orange Coast College from 2000 through 2002. Miss Nina taught and nurtured young children at Grace Lutheran Preschool for 12 years. She married Lorne Hartley on May 11, 1985, and together they raised their daughter and son.

Nina was deeply faithful in the power of Jesus’ love and compassion and she showed this every day in her kindness and generosity to others. For the past 9 years she helped countless individuals and their families through her deep involvement and leadership in the Breast Buddies Cancer Support Group. Whenever Nina heard about someone with a breast cancer diagnosis, whether through a chance meeting in a clinic or finding out about it from family and friends, she was there to provide support, not just one time but continually throughout the person’s journey. She gave so many people inspiration and hope.

Nina loved creating and maintaining her beautiful garden, making sure it was a welcoming home for hummingbirds, butterflies, and her favorite – frogs. Disneyland was among her favorite places, and she cherished the times spent there with family and friends, especially her daughter Lisa. Nina was an avid hiker and lover of the natural world. She especially loved spending time with family in Yosemite National Park and Sedona, Arizona. Nina loved dancing – tap, Zumba, line, and free form. Most of all, Nina was so much fun to be with. Everyone was drawn to her sense of humor, laughter, and hilarious stories. She was so generous with her time, always there for anyone who needed her, making each person feel special and loved. She was loved dearly by her family, friends, and everyone who was lucky enough to know her. She truly made our world a better place.

Nina is survived by her beloved husband, Lorne; two children, Lisa and Michael; her mother, Olga; brother William (Bill) and sister Laurie; nieces and nephews Danielle, William, Rosalie, Samantha, Rebecca, and Joseph; Aunt Bunny and Aunt Maritza; and many cousins and dear friends.

Visitation and a rosary for family and friends will begin at 10:30 a.m. and a funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, September 20, 2021 at Saint Bonaventure Catholic Church in Huntington Beach, CA. A luncheon reception will follow the services at Huntington Bay Club, 4121 Warner Avenue, Huntington Beach. Donations in Nina’s name can be made to the American Cancer Society.

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