Denise Louise Pflug's Obituary
Denise Louise Pflug, age 71, of Pittsburg, Kansas, passed away on March 30, 2026.
She was born on July 22, 1954, in Pittsburg, KS, to Angelo “Frank” and Germaine Barone. She attended Girard schools throughout her education and graduated from high school in 1972. She also attended Kansas Teachers College after high school.
Denise was a strong, independent, and determined woman who worked hard throughout her life and faced challenges with resilience and grit.
In September of 1979, she married Glen “Ed” Pflug, and during that chapter of her life, she became the proud mother of two daughters, Danielle and Nicole. Though the marriage later ended in divorce, those years were an important part of her life and began the family she loved so deeply.
Denise worked at Ace Forms for 35 years, where she was known for her friendly nature and gift of gab. She genuinely enjoyed connecting with her customers and coworkers, building relationships that made her work especially meaningful. In retirement, she embraced a slower pace of life and truly enjoyed it.
Denise found her greatest joy in spending time with her family. She loved the beach, as well as a good movie or TV show, doing puzzles, and reading, but her happiest moments were spent surrounded by those she loved most. Above all else, she absolutely adored her grandchildren. They were the center of her world, and her love for them was unmatched.
She is survived by her daughter, Danielle Elaine Hartzfeld, and her spouse, Thomas; her daughter, Nicole Louise Rich, and her spouse, Tommy; her beloved grandchildren: Anna Louise Rich, Mila Josephine Rich, Avery Jean Hartzfeld, and Frankie Elaine Rich; and her brother, Frankie Charles Barone of Kansas City and her beloved pets, Harry and Lola. She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Germaine, and her former husband, Ed.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at the residence of 514 E. Centennial Dr. Pittsburg, KS, as an open house style celebration of life from 12-4pm, stop by whenever feels right.
Her family will remember her as a woman who loved fiercely, stood her ground, and gave her whole heart to those she cared about. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to your local animal rescue shelter or the Pittsburg Public Library; these may be mailed or dropped off at Bath-Naylor Funeral Home, 522 S. Broadway Pittsburg, KS 66762. Arrangements are under the direction of Bath-Naylor Funeral Home, Pittsburg, KS.
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