Carolyn V. Pfotenhauer

Carolyn V. (Viets) Pfotenhauer, a devoted mother, accomplished attorney, and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2026, at the age of 88. Born on November 17, 1937, in Savonburg, Kansas, to her parents John Henry and Martha Grace (Benefeld) Viets Carolyn lived a life marked by her relentless pursuit of knowledge and unwavering commitment to justice. She married the late Frederick W. "Fritz" Pfotenhauer on July 3, 1959.

A proud 1955 graduate of Independence High School in Kansas, Carolyn went on to earn her bachelor's degree in counseling from IU South Bend and later achieved her Doctorate in Jurisprudence from the esteemed University of Notre Dame. Her dedication to the field of law led her to serve as Corporate Counsel for Holy Cross Health Systems, and she previously brought her passion for public service to the City Attorney's office in South Bend, Indiana.

Carolyn was known not only for her professional accomplishments but also for her kind, introspective nature. She was a private individual who treasured her time spent in the quiet company of a good book or exploring new horizons. One of her favorite pastimes was traveling, with St. Maarten in the Virgin Islands holding a special place in her heart.

Carolyn leaves behind her beloved son, David Pfotenhauer (Eden) of Mooresville, along with nine adoring grandchildren: Elizabeth Steinbach (Ethan), Kennan Pfotenhauer (Lisa), Samuel Pfotenhauer (Riley), Daniel Pfotenhauer (Cali), Jonathan Mitchell (Kimberly), Jon Pfotenhauer (Meghan), Kelsey Mitchell, Benjamin Pfotenhauer (Olivia), and Adam Mitchell. She was also the proud grandmother of 13 great-grandchildren, Maggie Mitchell, Fritz Pfotenhauer, Ellie Jo Pfotenhauer, Truett Pfotenhauer, Jack Pfotenhauer, Zion Steinbach, Ada Jane Pfotenhauer, Tyson Pfotenhauer, Waylan Pfotenhauer, Julie Mae Pfotenhauer, Juda Steinbach, Isla Pfotenhauer, and Turner Pfotenhauer; who brought her immense joy and the light of her life.

She is also survived by her loving sister, Lois Emerson, and is now reunited in spirit with her parents, her husband Frederick W. "Fritz" Pfotenhauer, her son Kurt Pfotenhauer, as well as her siblings, Paul Viets, Flo Seevers, and LaVera Viets.

Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Jones Family Funeral and Cremation Service in Mooresville. Her legacy will continue to inspire her family and friends, reminding us all of the power of love, intellect, and unwavering support.

To send a condolence to the family or to share a story about Carolyn, please visit: www.jonesfamilymortuary.com