Carolyn Martienssen

Carolyn Martienssen, 80, of West Hazleton, Pennsylvania, passed away on April 24, 2026, at Lehigh Valley Hospital–Muhlenberg following a brief illness.

Born on August 29, 1945, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Carolyn began life with humble beginnings, spending part of her childhood in an orphanage. An experience that she carried with her throughout her life and fondly shared.

Carolyn dedicated much of her life to protecting the environment and improving the Hazleton area she called home. She worked hard to advocate for the cleanup of toxic waste sites and former industrial areas, while encouraging the transformation of unused land into spaces that could be enjoyed by the community for generations to come. She believed people deserved clean, safe, and welcoming places to live.

She also spent many years searching for her biological parents, a journey that reflected her hope, persistence, and desire to understand her roots. Although she built her life in Hazleton, Philadelphia always remained close to her heart, and she often spoke of one day returning there.

Carolyn had a love for computers and enjoyed creating websites, and enjoyed canvas sewing art. She was also known for her love of her Oscar fish, earning herself the nickname “Oscette”.

She is survived by her husband, Charles Martienssen; her daughter, Cynthia Kantner; her son, Conrad Depuy; and 15 cherished grandchildren. She also leaves behind many friends, neighbors, and others whose lives she touched over the years.

In accordance with her wishes, Carolyn will be cremated and no formal services will be held. A private memorial for family and friends will take place at a future date.

Carolyn will be remembered for her caring heart, determined spirit, and the many ways she tried to make the world around her better. After a lifelong search for where she came from, may she now be peacefully reunited with the parents she longed to know.