Harold Hartell

Harold K. Hartell, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather died on Thursday, Sept. 18, 2014. He was a resident of the Espanola Valley for more than 60 years and recently resided in Las Cruces, New Mexico, surrounded by family and friends. Harold was born Sept. 5, 1921, in Kansas City, Kansas, to Edith and Victor Hartell. During World War II, he served with the Eighth Army Air Corps surviving several close calls and one midair collision. Following World War II, he built a home with his own two hands and there he raised a family. He worked in Los Alamos, supporting the Los Alamos National Laboratory until his retirement after 47 years. Harold was known for his integrity, selflessness, compassion and ability to overcome life's obstacles. His clear and unwavering value system made him a role model to many.

He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Charlene, four children, 13 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Harold was a dedicated family man, church member, community member and citizen. He was a committed Christian, and a lifelong member of Valley View United Methodist Church in Espanola. While living in Las Cruces, Harold attended El Calvario United Methodist Church, where he was blessed by a loving church family. A funeral service will be held Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2014, at 9 a.m. at DeVargas Funeral Home in Espanola, followed by interment at the Santa Fe National Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to share food and fellowship at Valley View United Methodist Church in Espanola immediately following burial. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Harold's name to McCurdy Ministries, 261 S. McCurdy Road, Espanola, NM 87532, or a charity of your choice. The family of Harold K. Hartell has entrusted the care of their loved one to the DeVargas Funeral Home and Crematory of the Espanola Valley. 1-505-747-7477 or www.devargasfuneral.com