Sue Starlin (Pletcher) Nolte

“Heaven Has Gained Another Angel” in the passing of Starlin “Sue” Nolte, 87, who passed away, Sunday, October 24, 2021, peacefully at home, in the arms of her beloved family after a period of failing health. 

Sue was born in March 15, 1934 to Dennis and Janet Pletcher in a small West Virginia town called Camden on Gauley. 

Her family moved to Akron, Ohio when Sue was just 7 years old.  She attended and graduated from Akron Public Schools and in 1953, Sue met Donald Nolte on a blind date.  This chance meeting would lead to 66 years of marriage and devotion. They were blessed with four wonderful children, Michael, Terry, Bonnie and Jeffrey, all of whom attended Stow City Schools, where Sue was an active participant in their school activities.  She served as PTA president and ran the Stow High School concession stand for several years during sports events.   The family attended Christ Episcopal Church in Kent where they met many lifelong friends.   Sue worked tirelessly for the church, where she served in many capacities including, serving on the Altar Guild.  She was the Director of the Sunday School, and was affiliated with (ECW) Episcopal Church Women.  She was perhaps most proud of the organization of the Christ Episcopal Church Hospice Brunch, that she helped launch and which, along with the dedicated committee, became an annual fund raiser for the “Have a Heart for Hospice” program in coordination with Robinson Memorial Hospital.

Sue loved the holidays, especially Christmas.  Her family could always look forward to her Santa and Angel decorated Christmas tree, her 100 plus cookies, Christmas morning brunch and delicious dinners.  She was an avid reader and enjoyed needlepoint, but most of all, Sue was happiest when surrounded by her family.

During the course of her life, Sue had endured many health issues, but as the saying goes, “Though She Be but Little, She be Fierce,” as she faced each one with resiliency and strength.  Her faith, sense of humor, family and friends, carried her through.

Sue is survived by her husband Donald, her daughter Bonnie (Stow) son, Jeffrey (Los Angeles), daughter in law, Jeane Nolte (Stow), her beloved grandchildren, Marin (Nick) Owen (Silver Lake), Derric (New York City), MacKenzie, Alexa, and Colin and Great Grandchildren, Jake and Elleana Owen, many friends and extended family.   She was preceded in death by her parents, Janet and Dennis, sister, Dorothy, sons, Terry and Mike, and many in-laws.

Cremation has taken place.  Burial at Standing Rock Cemetery will be held on Thursday, November 4 at 10:30 a.m. with The Rev. Carol Evans, officiating.  A Celebration of Life will follow at a later date.

Donations may be made to Heartland Hospice, 231 Springside Drive, Suite 140, Akron, Ohio 44333.

Services in care of Bissler & Sons Funeral Home and Crematory, 628 West Main Street, Kent, OH 44240.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.