Faces of Sequim: Susan Bartielle

Published 1:30 am Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Susan Bartielle is a familiar face in Sequim. A prominent business owner and community volunteer, she was chosen in 2023 to be grand marshal of that year’s Sequim Irrigation Festival parade.

Bartielle is the owner of Dungeness Kids, a store located at 163 W. Washington St. that sells children’s clothes, books and toys and has donated to many local organizations. Dungeness Kids is open Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bartielle is often the person working the checkout counter.

How long have you lived in Sequim, and what brought you here?

I have lived here 20 years, and moved here with my husband after his parents decided to retire here.

When did you open Dungeness Kids?

I opened Dungeness Kids in 2008. We celebrated our 17-year anniversary this last summer.

You are quite involved in the community. Could you provide some specifics?

I have been a leader in Scouting for the last five years, and have been an active volunteer since my son joined in 2015.

I have been volunteering at my kids’ schools for the last 12 years, first as treasurer, and then as president of the Greywolf PTA when my kids were younger. I have been the treasurer of the Olympic Peninsula Academy PTO for the last three-and-a-half years.

I have been helping Toys for Tots with toy collection and buying infant toys for their program for over 10 years.

I have helped the Irrigation Festival with Family Fun Day for the last couple years.

I am also one of the leaders in our Sequim Merchant Group and have run the Choose Local Sequim Facebook page for the last decade.

Donations for Clallam County Toys for Tots ends Friday, Dec. 19. What would you like for people to know?

There is a greater need for families during this holiday season, and helping them make Christmas special for their kids is so appreciated.

Do you have any hobbies or special interests?

I love gardening, and have a large veggie garden each summer. I also love camping, hiking and being outdoors.

What do you consider your best character trait?

I am persistent and strong-willed. Some people may not appreciate it, but it has helped me accomplish a lot in my life.