Tribute Wall
Saturday
14
November
Visitation
12:00 am - 2:00 pm
Saturday, November 14, 2015
Norman Dean Home for Services, Inc.
16 Righter Avenue
Denville, New Jersey, United States
Charitable Donations
In lieu of flowers, kindly consider donations in her memory to the good work of the Ayres/Knuth Farm Foundation, Inc.
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The family of Carol K Hardin uploaded a photo
Friday, January 17, 2020
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Robert C. Hardin posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
“For Whom the Dog Barks” by Bob C. Hardin November 2015
Our Mom was an animal lover. She was particularly fond of… (Display) poodles. Specifically… (Re-display correctly) miniature poodles. Now, Mom always struck me as being a fairly intelligent woman, who usually knew what’s best for her family. So, why on earth, or any other planet, would an animal lover choose a high strung, high maintenance, yappy little dog for a pet…over and over and over again? Why, because it was her choice, her decision, and a perfect fit for her. Not so much a perfect fit for me. Thank you Mom for giving birth to… a cat lover.
(Address the guests) OK I need a little help from everyone for this. When I raise my hand, please say in unison, “And the dog barks.”(Let’s try it.) “And the dog barks.”
I have experienced the joy of witnessing some degree of truth in regard to the following:
Hey, Mom and Dad brought a new dog home today!
(Raise hand.) “And the dog barks.”
It’s sooo cute. And it sure likes to run around a lot.
(Raise hand.) “And the dog barks.”
Mailman’s at the door…
(Raise hand.) “And the dog barks.”
Lawn crew, gutter guys, Oil Company, meterman…
(Raise hand.) “And the dog barks.”
Deer, rabbit, chipmunk…
(Raise hand.) “And the dog barks.”
Squirrel… Shhhh.
(Don’t raise hand.) I don’t think the dog barked that day. But I wasn’t there.
Strange lights, the wind, or even ghosts…
(Raise hand.) “And the dog barks.”
Dinner time, lunch is ready, breakfast…
(Raise hand.) “And the dog barks.”
Merry Christmas, Happy Birthday, Joyous Revolution Day in Mexico…
(Raise hand.) “And the dog barks.”
Hi Mom. Thanks for having Jeff, Jack, Maddie, Sharon, Heather and I all over for a nice family visit…
(Raise hand.) “And the dog barks.”
Hi Mom, just calling ‘cause I had a quick question…
(Raise hand.) “And the dog barks.”
Hi Mom, stopped by to drop off a…
(Raise hand.) “And the dog barks.”
Hi Mom…
(Raise hand.) “And the dog barks.”
Hi…
(Raise hand.) “And the dog barks.”
Mom always said, “You know, Bobby, Sugarbabe only barks because of you. You get her all wound up.”
So, I called her house, on a land line, when I knew the dog was eating. There were no visitors and no one was roaming the yard. The mail was already delivered. No outdoor wildlife or ghosts. And it wasn’t a birthday, Christmas, or Joyous Revolution Day in Mexico. It was just Mom and myself, about to have a conversation on a telephonic device… a mother and son catching up… two souls in need of some meaningful communication with each other…she was so close to completing an entire sentence…
(Raise hand. (3)) “And the dog barks.”
In closing, I will always miss our Mom, the dogs, not so much. But I do respect the fact that they meant something to her.
And Mom, along with Babette, Fi-Fi, Gigi, Sheree, Hardin’s Pippen Dancer, one with a name I don’t remember, and Sugarbabe, were probably right…I am sorry, it was all my fault.
(End)
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Robert C. Hardin posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
“Sunday Driver” by Bob C. Hardin November 2015
As the woman approached the gleaming chrome gates, she was greeted by a floating little cherub, who chirped from under the ellipse upon its head, “It’s so nice to meet you. We have been expecting you. And how can we help you today?” The woman replied, “Oh I need help with a lot of things, but first, I’d like to buy…a car.” The cherub blurted, “Oh, your money’s no good here. One does not buy a car at this place. We here at Top Tier Auto Sales wish to GIVE you a car. Besides, you’ve earned it. I’m going to introduce you to the manager, and he’ll help you from this point on.” The woman politely replied, “Thank you so much”.
The manager, appearing from a cloud, a bright light, a rainbow or something; drifted over to the woman and greeted her with a great big smile and a hug - not a car dealer smile, a real smile. Not an invasive hug, a parental hug. “So, young lady, have you thought about what model of automobile you would like?” She chuckled and was impressed that he already seemed to know what she was in the market for. “Well, my husband would like something good in all weather, some kind of heavy tank like thing. My Dad would like something practical and dependable, to get to work in. My mom would like a hot rod, a convertible, a sporty piece of American steel. My brother would like- -Abruptly the manager interrupted, “WAIT, the question was, what kind of car would YOU like, not what your family would like.” She paused and stated, “Yes, but I don’t know what I would want. I’ve never really thought about it. Although, I am sure that I want it to be something we can all take Sunday rides in, together. But I’m so worried that they may not approve of my choice.” He comforted her and told her it would be okay, and that he had the perfect automobile for her.
A slick white Cadillac convertible appeared from a cloud, a bright light, a rainbow or something; the chrome was polished to perfection, the glass was squeaky and smelled of Windex, flowers adorned the body panels, the music from the film Dirty Dancing drifted from the radio, and the trunk was packed with Beaujolais wine and poodle puppies (yes, they were safe). The door opened in front of her, the driver’s seat was empty, reserved for her - the designated driver. Her adoring Husband was in the passenger seat, her proud Parents and Brother were in the back. Her family asked her, “Carol, where would you like to go?” Her immediate response was, “Everywhere”.
(Side story: Some unearthly measure of time ahead, she asked her mom to come sit up front, next to her. Her mother smiled and said…yes. There wasn’t a dry eye in the car.)
The horizon was painted with clouds, a bright light, a rainbow or something. A sublime sunrise was emerging as they all rode to the “everywhere”. Suddenly two boys came into view hitch hiking in the shoulder. One had a crayon, the other a toy plane. She pulled up alongside, without churning up any dust at all. After lecturing them on the dangers of hitchhiking, she proudly stated, as if looking for approval,
“We’re heading North, South, East, and West to embrace all there is to see.
There’s much to catch up on, so we will do this again and again, repeatedly.
Now’s not the time for you to ride along on this track.
But one day I’ll pick you both up, on the way back.”
(End)
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Robert C. Hardin uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
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Photography by Mom's stylist and friend, Jeffrey Feldman.
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Robert C. Hardin uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
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Photography by Mom's stylist and friend, Jeffrey Feldman.
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Sue and Alan Filauro uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, November 14, 2015
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Carol with her friend and hairdresser, Jeff getting a whole new look.
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Sue and Alan Filauro lit a candle
Saturday, November 14, 2015
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We will truly miss Carol for her style and spirited personality. Her gracious hospitality was at its best during any holiday. Her peanut counting contest and over-sized candy bars at Halloween made her a legend in Denville. Her devotion to the A/KFF will not be forgotten after 16 years of decorating wreaths for their tree sale. Her stunning gift wrapping was as much a decoration under the tree as the fanciest ornament on it. Carol's attention to excellence made those around her better, too. Most of all we will miss her commitment to friends and family. We are grateful for her friendship and will miss her smile, her determination and her dedication to her companion, Sugar.
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Susan Filauro uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, November 14, 2015
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Carol with one of her fabulous Christmas swan centerpieces for the Ayres/Knuth Farm Foundation's annual tree sale.(2014)
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Sue Schmidt posted a condolence
Thursday, November 5, 2015
Rob and I are sorry we are able to be with you this coming weekend at this point. Your mom has been on our mind and others for sometime now. We are thinking of you. She loved her family. Carol was a good friend. She never held back. She spoke her mind and that was a good thing.
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Carol Thomas lit a candle
Wednesday, November 4, 2015
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So sorry for your loss Bob. Incredible story you wrote.
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Mark Renne lit a candle
Tuesday, November 3, 2015
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Doug & Christeen Lynch lit a candle
Tuesday, November 3, 2015
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Robert C. Hardin posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 3, 2015
Following is one of three short stories that I was recently inspired to write after mom's passing. The intention was to share it with family and friends at the service, therefore avoiding the traditional momumentary(which no time frame could ever accommodate). For no defined reason, I've decided to pour this one now.
“Stranded in the Desert, Never Alone” by Bob C. Hardin
With vehicle disabled, compass broken, and on last legs; the two young men blindly wandered the scorching sand for days. Without proper nutrition and a high concentration of sodium in their blood from lack of fresh water, they babbled at each other within a state of irrationality and hallucination. In their minds, the conversation should dilute the obvious situation, therefor keeping them conscious for the possible arrival of rescue.
One screamed out to the other, “I watched your mother die today!” The other quietly replied, “And I too watched your mother die today.” They both nodded to each other, pleased that they had something in common, and continued the discussion with the best degree of rationality that they both could muster. “I had the best school lunch in the whole lunchroom.”, said the elder one. “My clothes always matched and my room was spotless!”, stated the other. The wind blew sand in their eyes. Then, at exactly the same time, they sang out in unison, “Flowers, clean clothes, clean house, gardens, fireworks, birthday parties, dinner parties, sleepovers, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Easter, picnics, pool parties, the beach, vacations, candle light,…Christmas.” Ending the chant, his scalp scorched, one man dropped to his knees and wept,” Christmas. Christmas will never be the same.” Lifted up by the other, they continued their journey, souls blistering.
Days past. The sun baked pair continued to rant insanity about everything from, “go to bed, crayons, pick up your toys, underwear for G.I. Joe, read me a story”, and in no particular order; “Dr Suess, snow days, Siamese kittens, curly haired poodles, a basset hound, Dalmatian, turtle, guitars, rabbits, mini bikes, snakes, a family of mice, bruises, scabby knees, bee stings, bloody noses, poison ivy, “better stay home from school”, colds and flu, chicken pox, sore throats, tonsillitis, goose grease, stitches, broken bones, broken hearts and….”someday you won’t think girls have cooties”.
They both laughed, spinning in drunken circles, and landed face down in the jet blown sand. Then through crusty slit eyes, one son noticed an extra set of prints, or dents, next to their own footprints. “Where did those marks come from? They look like hoof prints.”, said the eldest. “What the heck are you talking about? There’s no horses following us out here. It’s just you and me, barely! You’re losing your mind! Nana always liked you best!“ “Well, Mom liked you best.” “You’re spoiled!” “You’re adopted.”
After a long pause, they stared at each other and realized that their demise was eminent. There was no rescue party coming. Their party was over. “Sleep tight, don’t let the bed bugs bite, and if they do…”
The men were soon to become dust. Suddenly, a beautiful orange and purple sunset splashed into the sky above the dunes. “You see what I see?” “Yea, I see them.” On the horizon, a crowd of people waved and hurried towards them.
Up in the night, high above the hands of the crowd, an apparition of a woman on horseback appeared. Her hair was short, yet still managed a slow motion dance in the air. With vision sharp and focused, she rode tall and proud on bareback, arms and legs pumped with strength and her back bones strong. She wore a soft flannel gown that appeared regal in the heavenly night sky. The stars behind the rider became a majestic trail of simple daisies as she led the group towards the two young men. Then she arced off a dune and disappeared into the night air.
The two brothers lived on. Their friends and family continuing in their hearts.
Along with their mother, who was always with them before, forever with them now, and hearing every word on their breath.
(End)
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Mike Bradford lit a candle
Monday, November 2, 2015
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Elizabeth Kamp uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, November 1, 2015
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Aunt Carol looking beautiful on Christmas Eve.
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Elizabeth Kamp uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, November 1, 2015
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Aunt Carol with her brother and dad, Sherman Drive, about 1946
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Elizabeth Kamp uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, November 1, 2015
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Good times at Aunt Carol's pool, with her dad, mom, and brother. (around the late 80s).
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Elizabeth Kamp uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, November 1, 2015
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Aunt Carol with her little brother, Chuck, enjoying the shore with their mother.
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Robert C. Hardin uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, November 1, 2015
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Age 72(Mom, not the horse)10-10-09. Stables near Action Park.
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Barbara and Shawn Morgan posted a condolence
Saturday, October 31, 2015
Our deepest sympathies to Bob, Sharon, Heather, and extended family. You are in our thoughts and prayers
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Jeff Hardin uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, October 31, 2015
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Mom at a very young age. I think 1939. The distinctive nose has carried through at least 2 generations.
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Jeff Hardin uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, October 31, 2015
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June 2014. The immediate family at a summer get together. The changing of the era.
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Jeff Hardin uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, October 31, 2015
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The favorite restaurant for a special occasion was at Rod's.
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Jeff Hardin uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, October 31, 2015
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Mom with one of many in a long line of high strung well intentioned companions.
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Jeff Hardin uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, October 31, 2015
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She absolutely loved the sun.
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Jeff Hardin uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, October 31, 2015
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The favorite vacation spot was the Outer Banks of North Carolina.
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Jeff Hardin uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, October 31, 2015
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Any special event was marked by a picture in front of the living room fireplace.
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Anne Whiteside posted a condolence
Friday, October 30, 2015
While I did not know your mom personally, I grew up at the end of Magnolia Avenue and was fortunate enough to see Mrs. Hardin's lovely house every day when I left the neighborhood. If she wasn't out in the yard overseeing the perfection I was able to understand the care and time she took in making sure it was perfect. My brothers, sister and I made sure we made it all the way up Magnolia Ave to Birch Run and out to the Hardin's on Cooper Rd. on Halloween just to get a glimpse inside the front door to see how beautiful and warm the house was. We always got FULL size candy bars. Mrs. Hardin and her wonderful home was a memory I will never forget...God Bless the family and Rest in Peace Mrs. Hardin....kindest regards...
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Donna & Mike Chen posted a condolence
Friday, October 30, 2015
Bob, our deepest sympathies to you and your family at your great loss.
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Hank and Elaine Muller posted a condolence
Thursday, October 29, 2015
Carol was a wonderful friend and a very talented lady as anyone who ever visited her home knows. She will be greatly missed.
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Michele McCue Shaffer posted a condolence
Thursday, October 29, 2015
Bob and family,
We are so sorry to hear about your Mom's passing. She was amazing lady whose spirit and flowers will live on in the Birch Run section. Her commitment to her family and the pride in her home were so evident - just drive by the house. We loved seeing her at the farm and watching her tend to her landscape. She truly epitomized pride in home ownership. May she rest in peace and once again find joy in the arms of your dad. You are in our prayers. Steve & Michele (McCue) Shaffer
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Robert C. Hardin posted a symbolic gesture
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
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We're working on the obit, mom. Don't worry, it'll get done.
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Robert C. Hardin uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
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Mom on a boat
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Robert C. Hardin uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
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Skoshi on front steps of Cooper Rd house. Mom claimed much responsibility in training this Siamese. My belief is that Skoshi pretended to be trained by mom, but was actually taking night courses to educate herself.
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Robert C. Hardin uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
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Dad in early Trust Company of Morris County bank ad, where he worked and met mom. Morris County Daily Record 4-10-61(3 days after my first birthday). Note the hair.
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Robert C. Hardin uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
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First house mom and dad owned. Slow news day..."Banker buys home"
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Sue Schmidt lit a candle
Tuesday, October 27, 2015
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16 RIGHTER AVENUE, DENVILLE, NJ 07834
(973) 627-1880
info@normandean.com
DAVID G. MILNE, MANAGER NJ LIC. NO. 4301
SERVING THE DENVILLE, ROCKAWAY, PARSIPPANY, Mt. Lakes, Boonton,
Morris Plains & SURROUNDING AREAS OF NEW JERSEY SINCE 1957
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