Helyn Bartlett Obituary

Helyn (Lynn) C. Bartlett (nee Sonefeld), passed away peacefully in her home on July 3, 2025. She was 83.
Helyn "Lynn" Carol Bartlett was born December 19, 1941 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Floyd and Eleanor Sonefeld (nee Jack). The younger of two girls, Lynn and her older sister Mary Sue remained close throughout her life. After graduating from Mercy High School and earning a degree in Communications from Marquette University, Lynn served as a 5th grade school teacher at Lee Elementary. In 1963, Lynn was introduced to Bruce Bartlett through a mutual friend. They were married in 1965 and enjoyed 50 wonderful years together.
After marriage, Lynn and Bruce moved to Madison, WI. In 1969, they adopted their first child, David, and in 1972 their second, Susan. Shortly after the adoption of their children, Lynn became a representative for Princess House Crystal. Lynn's career flourished during her 23 years with Princess House, where she became Division Organizer for the Midwest region. Lynn and Bruce spent as much time as they could on the shores of Lake Michigan, where they owned a cottage and made many happy memories smelting, cooking and laughing with friends and family.
In 1996, they moved from Madison to Brookeville MD, and purchased the 1817 residence of Thomas Moore, which after years of neglect had fallen into grave disrepair. After a full year of hands-on labor (and a lot of help from friends), they restored the 16-room colonial manor house into a bed and breakfast, which they lovingly hosted for 15 years.
In 2012 Lynn and Bruce moved to the Villages, where they thrived in the company of new friends and the fun loving community. After Bruce's passing in 2015, Lynn found great comfort and support in her church and friendships. She was a lifelong devoted catholic, and served as president of the singles club at St. Vincent de Paul catholic church in Wildwood. She also loved volunteering at Restoring Hope Thrift Store, which employs and benefits veterans, on weekends.
Lynn collected antiques and had an expert's eye for finding undervalued treasures. She was a sharp bridge player and loved playing games with friends. She enjoyed the occasional trip to the casino, and was a lifelong fan of the Milwaukee Brewers. She is survived by her sister Mary Sue Metrey, her nephews whom she adored (Rick, John, Paul, and Dan), her son David and daughter Susan, her grandchildren Ariana, Xavier, Zane and Sandra, and her many dear friends in Wisconsin and Florida, all of whom contributed to a long and blessed life full of cherished memories, by grace of God.
Funeral Services will be held Wednesday, August 13, 1:00 pm at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Wildwood. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to a charity of your choice or https://combatveteranstocareers.org.