With deep love and cherished memories, we announce the passing of Dolores Arndt Setzer, who peacefully departed this life on February 15, 2025, at the age of 96.

Born to the late Harry M. Arndt and Grace Yoder Arndt, Dolores grew up in Catawba County, where she cultivated a love for learning and service that would define her life. She graduated from Catawba County Schools before earning her teaching degree from Lenoir-Rhyne University. With a passion for education and an unwavering dedication to her students, she spent more than 28 years teaching high school English at Bunker Hill High School, inspiring

generations with her wisdom and kindness. In 1977, she was honored as the district’s Teacher of the Year, a testament to the profound impact she had in the classroom. Known for her humility and encouragement, she held a deep fondness for her students, who in turn adored her.

Beyond the classroom, Dolores was a dedicated member of Delta Kappa Gamma, an international society for women educators, and was recently honored for 60 years of service. Her commitment to education and mentorship left a lasting mark on the teaching community.

Faith played a central role in Dolores’s life. As a charter member of First Methodist Church in Conover, she lived out her devotion through service. She taught Sunday School, led youth groups, and participated in the United Methodist Women (UMW). She also shared her warmth and compassion through the Card Ministry, sending weekly notes to those in need of extra prayers, ensuring they felt remembered and loved.

A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, Dolores found her greatest joy in family. She is survived by her children: Carole (Dan) Hovland, Philip (Marjorie) Setzer, Lee (Gina) Setzer, and Lynn (Perry) Brittain. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Jessie Hamrick, Katie Rink, Laura (Jeremy) Morris, Andrew Setzer, Erin

Setzer, Bryce Setzer, Marc (Heather) Brittain, Bryan (Ramani) Karen, and Dana (Reid) Nichols, as well as many treasured great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Susie Arndt.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 60 years, Hugh Setzer, and her parents, Harry and Grace and her brother Jack Arndt.

Dolores lived a life defined by kindness, service, and love. Whether in the classroom, church, or at home, she touched countless lives with her wisdom, wit and grace. Though we grieve her passing, we take comfort in knowing she is at peace, reunited with those she loved.

Dolores’s family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to her friends, extended family, caregivers, and nurses who provided her with such compassionate care in her final years.

Your kindness and support brought comfort to Dolores and her loved ones, and your generosity will always be remembered.

A celebration of Dolores’s life will be held on Tuesday, February 18, 2025 at 11:45 a.m. at First Methodist Church in Conover. Rev. John Woods will officiate. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 10:45 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at First Methodist Church. A private family burial will be held at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to Carolina Caring 3975 Robinson Road, Newton, NC 28658 or First Methodist Youth Fund, 410 First Avenue North, Conover, NC 28613.

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The Setzer family is in the care of Bennett Funeral Service of Newton, 828-465-2111