Laurie Hultberg Obituary

Laurie J. Hultberg, age 73, passed away at Cayuga Medical Center on September 17, 2025 of respiratory failure after a long battle with cystic fibrosis. Laurie was born October 24, 1951 to John A. Hultberg and Jane L. Wynn in Rochester, NY, where she grew up. 

After graduating from Grinnell College in 1973 she spent several years in Japan, teaching English and studying pottery. She then made Ithaca her home where she has been an active member of the community for over 40 years. She spent her career as a recreation assistant at Ithacare and Longview Senior Living Community. Working with her hands gave Laurie great joy, and her medium of choice was clay. Over the years she conducted pottery classes throughout the community. She was engaged in a multitude of activities, including teaching tai chi classes, advising the Tompkins County Office for the Aging, and serving as a member of the Philanthropic Educational Organization. She was an active member of the resident council at McGraw House where she lived. The First Congregational Church has been her spiritual home for many years. Laurie enjoyed walks in nature, various handicrafts, storytelling, cooking, and being with friends and family.

Survivors include her sisters: Nancy (John) Sternfeld of Cortland, NY; Jane W. Hultberg of Ellsworth, ME; Heidi (Mike) Merhar of Boise, ID. She is also survived by three nieces and one nephew: Rachel Sternfeld, Matthew Sternfeld, Clara Merhar, and Megan Merhar.

A memorial service will be held at 11 am on Saturday, October 25th at the First Congregational Church, 309 Highland Road, Ithaca, NY 14850. Friends wishing to remember Laurie are asked to consider a gift to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation or to a charity of their choice.