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John F. Hartke

1969 - 2023

John F. Hartke obituary, 1969-2023, Higganum, CT

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John Hartke Obituary

John F. Hartke
John Frederick Hartke, 53, of Waterford, passed away on August 6, 2023 as a result of injuries sustained in an accident. John was born December 26, 1969 to Elizabeth (Strom) and Frederick M. Hartke, Jr. He was soon joined by his brother, Jeffrey, where they enjoyed a childhood full of time spent outside; hunting, fishing, and exploring. He graduated from Xavier High School in 1988, leading the school to a state rifle championship the same year. Besides nature, John loved people. This is reflected in his life's work as a firefighter and EMT for many years in the towns of Haddam and Waterford, and later with Electric Boat. Most recently, he was a Safety Officer at Eversource. Ever the avid outdoorsman, John could often be found enjoying time on his boat with his wife, Andrea, clamming, crabbing, or walking his beloved dog, Chase. While he loved the seasons of New England and living in Connecticut, Aruba was a second home and the source of countless family memories which will be cherished. John's greatest pride was being a good husband, father, son, friend, and so much more. Anyone that knew John would tell you he was nothing if not reliable, always just a phone call away when you needed him. His gregarious and hospitable nature will be sorely missed. John is survived by his wife Andrea (Brochu), children Arianna (Will) and Alexander, his parents Fred and Beth, and his brother Jeffrey (Marie). He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Helen Brochu, brothers and sisters-in-law, Karen (John) Capuano, Janet Bourgault, Gary (Sue) Brochu, and Lisa (Leonard) Radziwanowicz, loving nieces and nephews, Ian, Chelsea, Alyssa, and Brian, many cousins and a multitude of friends. He was predeceased by his paternal grandparents Fred Sr and Anne and his maternal grandparents Charles and Bobbie, his Godparents Thomas Hartke and Marcia Strom, father-in-law, Pete Brochu and brother-in-law, Gerard Bourgault. His dogs, TJ, Jake, and Hunter, were certainly waiting for him at the Rainbow Bridge. His family would like to thank the First Responders as well as the Doctors, Nurses and the entire Surgical Intensive Care Unit of Yale New Haven Hospital for the excellent care they provided during his stay. The family will receive visitors at Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver St., Middletown, on Saturday, August 12, 2023 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. A funeral service will be held at 12 p.m. at the funeral home. A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local fire department or outdoor club. To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com . Fair winds and following seas, John.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Middletown Press on Aug. 8, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
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Carolyn Malchow

October 13, 2023

Dear Beth and Fred,
I have just read the obituary of your son, John! My heart dropped! What you and Fred and family are going through is beyond words!
I am so very sorry. My faith knows he is safe and sound, but the loss of a beautiful son is
so hard to accept! I will pray for him and for your family. You are a strong caring woman and your family is near. Stay strong, lovely Bethmy love.

Nancy Harrigan James

August 26, 2023

I just learned of Johns passing today. Andrea I'm so sorry...I always enjoyed talking with the two of you as our paths crossed at Harness and Seaside while you walked Chase. Last time I saw john was July at Harkness as he was walking with chase. That's how I want to remember him...

Fred Wissell

August 25, 2023

Andrea, I am so sorry for your loss, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Ed and Rita

August 23, 2023

Heartfelt sorry goes out to the Hartke family. Though only knew him for a short while at the marina on pier 4 we knew he loved to fish. Sincere heartfelt wishes. Ed and Rita

Sandy and Jack Fuoco

August 22, 2023

Fred and Beth, Just learned of the passing of John. Jack and I send our thoughts and prayers. God Bless

Ron & Peggy Nanfito

August 17, 2023

Fred,Beth and family. We have just now learned of John’s passing. Words cannot express the shock and sorrow. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Have fond memories of the little league games where we met your family back in the 80’s. RIP John❤

Christine Salamone

August 13, 2023

I am truly so very sorry for all of you as you are faced with going through the unimaginable loss of John. I met Fred and Beth through my brother, Tony. To say that this shouldn´t have happened is an understatement. We can´t ask why and even if we do, there is no answer. All you can do is rely on the support of each other, be grateful for the bond and time you and John had together, and yes, mourn the loss of one who you still want here with you. Try to take some solace in knowing that although his greatest joy on earth was with you, he is now experiencing the glory of Heaven where NOTHING bad can happen, and only indescribable bliss surrounds him along with those gone before him. I know that your pain cannot be lessened. I join many who know you in extending my prayers and thoughts to hopefully comfort you during this difficult time.

Helene Lamchick

August 13, 2023

I am so sorry Andrea. I am thinking of you .

neomi seidell

August 13, 2023

Andrea, We are so sorry and we’re very shocked to hear about John. We met you on the beach in Aruba. We enjoyed our talks about life and living to its fullest. Many laughs were shared. Rick and I will be thinking of you. We are so very sorry. Neomi and Rick Seidell

christine souza

August 12, 2023

We are so very sorry to hear of Johns death. We met on the beach in Aruba about 12 years ago. Morning chats as huts and chairs were saved, talk of the past year, career changes and watching the children grow. We intoduced them to the dutch cookies. We looked forward to seeing each other and this past February will be our warm memory. Sincere sympathy to all of Johns family and friends from HUT 57 Brian and Chris from Plymouth Ma

Marcel and Kris Beaudet

August 12, 2023

Andrea and family, we are so very sorry to hear of John’s passing. We met you guys at Crockers this year, pier 4. While we didn’t know John well, or that long, it was clear he had a fun, kind personality and clearly loved his family. He will be missed.

Richard Marsie

August 12, 2023

Fred, Beth, Jeffery, Andrea, as well as the entire family and friends.
Our deepest condolences in the untimely passing of John... Our deepest thoughts and prayers are with you.
Where to start?
The times spent together with John, hunting , fishing, and helping anyone in anyway he could.. A co-worker in the beginning that led to a deep friendship, bestman at our wedding at his house in Haddam and so many memories of time spent together will be cherished...
As years move along, we find ourselves going down different paths that keep us apart. Though we had not been in touch recently, I know a call to John, would lead him to my doorstep for whatever the need. That was John.
Though it is a sad time for all, I am sure we all can think of one memory of John that can put a smile on our face. It is time to mourn but a time to remember John, time spent together and John for who he was and all he did for us..
Rest in peace my friend.
You will be missed.

Rich and Terry

Al Spadafora

August 11, 2023

John took me on my first duck hunt on the Connecticut River on a cold Friday morning after Thanksgiving a few years back. Had a great time and will always remember it. John will be missed.

Donna McNerney

August 11, 2023

I´ll remember John at the grill at the marina grilling his fish cakes then later on dancing with his lovely wife Andrea by the picnic tables. He brought so much fun and laughter. John took photos of all the boats going out for the fluke tournament after going out of his way to bring ice to the dock for his friends. John loved life, family and friends. He was generous , kind , helpful and friendly. He will be terribly missed. Captain John you will always be remembered.

Donna McNerney

August 11, 2023

In loving memory of a wonderful person. You will be missed
Donna.

Ed Kohl

August 11, 2023

Rest In Peace John, I will miss you and all the fishing stories we shared thru the years, you were a good friend. Ed

Audrey Brookes

August 11, 2023

Beth, Freddy and family
We are very sorry for your loss. I will always have fond memories of John skating on my mom's pond. We will keep all of you in our thoughts and prayers. Audrey & Scott Brookes

Becky Gerrish

August 11, 2023

Andrea, I was so sorry to learn of Johns passing. I know what a difficult time you are going thru. Nothing can replace him in your heart. You have you children and family to help you through this. God bless you and your family.

Robert Fiala

August 10, 2023

Our sincere condolences on the loss of your beloved Son John. May the love and prayers of family and friends comfort you in your sorrow. May God bless

Jim Baronowski

August 10, 2023

I wish to extend my condolences to the Hartke Family. I worked with John in the past; great sense of humor, always made you laugh. He will be missed.

Matt Gendron

August 10, 2023

What a tragedy. John the passion you had for your Wife, Family, Fishing, Hunting and that special devotion few know of for waterfowling always gave us something to talk about. What a saddened, heavy heart hearing this news. My sincerest condolences to entire family. Remember the great times everyone, He truly loved life.

Candace Casale

August 10, 2023

Beth and Fred- I just learned of your son's passing. While I never met John-I certainly know the two of you so he must have been a really good guy. It is awful to lose a "child" of any age. Having lost my son three months ago, I know how heartbreaking it is. You are in my prayers. Candy Casale

Lloyd Eze

August 10, 2023

My prayers are with John's family and may his soul rest in peace. May God see them through this period of grief.

Kathleen Priest Waz

August 10, 2023

May God bless you in your time of sorrow. Sending prayers and love to you and your family.

Jenell Smith Janes

August 10, 2023

Fred & Beth - I am so sorry to hear of John’s passing. May the memories of good times fill your hearts and help comfort you at this time of loss. With my deepest sympathies.

Rebecccca Roberts

August 10, 2023

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always. John was a great person. I interacted with him at Eversource. He was supportive and kind. I will miss him.

Ed & Betty Windhom

August 10, 2023

Andrea,
Ed and I are both shocked and saddened by John's passing. If there is anything we can do for you please let us know. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. John was a good person and great neighbor.
Love, Ed and Betty

Patty Michaud

August 10, 2023

Andrea May the love and support of your family and friends help you through this difficult time. So sadden to hear of you your loss.

Kurt Bogdan

August 9, 2023

Dear Andrea & The Hartke Family,

I was so sadden to hear of John's passing. He was a wonderful friend to me while we spent time together and a legend in our community of outdoorsmen. I met John as a youth, always full of vigor, compassion for others, understanding, and a great person to be with. It wasn't until my late teens and early 20s that I became better friends with John. He was the same dude, full of youth and vigor and we spend a lot of time in the outdoors. John was always there regardless of the time you called.

In 1995, I had a very stressful time I was dealing with - my move to NYC to pursue a job in the unknown. I didn't have a lot of support and John without hesitation, helped me. John drove a Uhaul from CT to NJ with me and with the help of my mother and aunt moved me into an apartment. I was immensely thankful and just a darn good friend. Years following we still would hang out in the outdoors.

His kindness, friendship, amazing spirit, and help to others will never be forgotten.

I pray for John and his entire family. Peace and Love to the entire Hartke family. I am immensely sorry with John's passing and eternally grateful for the friendship we shared. God Bless.

Kurt Bogdan

Michele Grimes

August 9, 2023

My dear Andrea, I´m so sorry for the loss of your dear husband. I´m can´t imagine what you´re going through. You are very much loved by all your friends. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your beloved family at this difficult time.

Pamela Metcalfe

August 9, 2023

Andrea & family.

I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this most difficult time.

John was such a wonderful, kind, and loving person. May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Sincerely,
Pam Metcalfe

Lori Hayes

August 9, 2023

Andrea and family,
I was so saddened by this news! I can only imagine how devastating this is for you. What I do know is how loved you are and how your friends and family will be there for you now and forever and I hope this will be of some comfort. My thoughts and prayers are with you,

Kim Pappadopoulas

August 9, 2023

Andrea, I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Sending you lots of prayers and hugs to you and your family. Love Kim

Pola VonFaulkenberg

August 9, 2023

Andrea,so sorry to hear of John´s passing.My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.Remember all the precious moments you shared.Rest in peace John.Sending lots of hugs and love. Pola

Debbie Labasi

August 9, 2023

Andrea, I am so sorry for the loss of John. My heart goes out to you and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Sending you hugs, strength and Love. Love Debbie

Joseph schlichting

August 9, 2023

To the Harkey family I´m sorry for your loss. John was a very good guy. He loved his family. It´s sad to write yes

Tom LeBlond

August 9, 2023

In the short time I knew John, he had become a good friend and dependable colleague. I am thankful to have known this kind man who did so much to ensure that those around him were safe and healthy. My family's thoughts and prayers are with Andrea and John's family (including Chase) whom he loved so very much.

Fair Winds and Following Seas

Heidi Grant

August 9, 2023

I am so very sorry for your loss. Praying for your family.

Vicki Damaschi

August 9, 2023

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Traci Webster

August 9, 2023

Andrea and family - I am shocked and saddened to hear of the loss of John. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Rob Cushman

August 9, 2023

With my deepest condolences to the entire family. John will be missed, great memories of all the laughs we had during your short time working at the airport.
In our hearts and minds forever, rest in peace.

Liz Whitty, Xavier High School

August 9, 2023

Xavier High School extends sincere condolences to the Hartke family. John, his family and friends are in the prayers of this Xaverian community.

Estelle Leandri

August 9, 2023

Andrea and family, I am so sorry for your loss! It will not be easy but remember all the good times that you shared. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Estelle Leandri

Ann Stavrou

August 9, 2023

Andrea and family. I was shocked to learn of John´s passing. My heart is broken for you. My prayers are for your peace and comfort in this difficult time. Hugs to you and your family.

Steve Robarge

August 9, 2023

John was a good man , I had the pleasure working with John at Millstone Fire Protection. My condolences go to John’s family. RIP John

Samantha Houska

August 9, 2023

It’s so hard to put things in words right now. My condolences to the entire Hartke Family. Beth Fred Jeff Marie Mrs John Hartke and children And the entire family. So very sorry for your loss. John was a real brother in the Haddam Fire Department always watching over me like a big brother. I will cherish our good times together. Especially training for the Fireman’s field Day years ago when John and I won first place in the water ball contest. John was always there for his brother and sister fire fighters and always cared about his friends and family. You will be greatly missed John. Rest in Peace Brother and friend Love Samantha and the Houska Family

Paula & Jim Woodworth

August 9, 2023

Beth, Fred and Family, We are so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless.

Jim Broadwell

August 9, 2023

Andrea and family I´m so sorry for you loss. My heart and prayers goes out to you.

Chuck Caye

August 9, 2023

It really sucks to hear about John´s passing! I´ll miss the random phone call but I´ll forever have the memory of my friend. Maybe when I´m on the river in Higganum, he can put a "big ole" smallmouth on my lure ! My condolences to the family. May John rest in peace, tight lines brother .

Shelli Nolan

August 8, 2023

Sorry for your loss
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Leanne Santos

August 8, 2023

Andrea and family-
Sending our deepest sympathies to you all. We were shocked and saddened to hear about John, truly a tragedy and a huge loss. He was a great guy, gone way too soon.
John and Leanne Santos

Tracy Delaura

August 8, 2023

Andrea, you don’t know me but I’ve heard so many stories about all of you I cut your husbands hair for the past decade, when my boss started a new job, only a few guys would give me shot John didn’t hesitate. He was a presence in any room, i would assume, by the way he could engage our whole shop. But we had a routine , he would sit, fill me in on whatever adventures you guys were about to endeavor , show me all the newest pup pictures, ask about my kids, and then he would get the whole room in a conversation about whatever, usually had every single person laughing out loud. I’d have to turn his chair to the waiting area so he could talk to everyone. The 30 or so minutes we got to chat every few weeks will be time I’ll cherish. John was a responder when my uncle had a heart attack at EB. He wasn’t just a customer, he was our friend. My heart is broken for all of you. If he’s left a dent in all our lives, I can’t imagine the hole in yours. We support and love you as a community. Please know your family is in my heart and my prayers and I am so incredibly sorry. He will never be forgotten.
With the deepest condolences,
Tracy DeLaura

Joe Hunter

August 8, 2023

Andrea and Family,
No words can express how sorry I was to hear this news. I am hopeful that you find some kind of peace knowing that John touched many lives and we are all better for knowing him and you. I will miss the banter and texts from him on how great the Bruins are. It was one of my most favorite things even thogh I was on the receiving end most times. He made you want to be around him, he was a great friend and talked about his family so much. I am so, so sorry for your loss.

Jack & Lynda Herrmann

August 8, 2023

Jack and I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to you and your family....We can only imagine the terrible pain you must be going through. Please accept our sincere condolences. J

Evan DeGaetano

August 8, 2023

My condolences to the family, I worked with John for a short time at EB. He was always good to me. My he rest in peace.

Katherine Nickerson

August 8, 2023

John, Katherine and the entire JLN Associates organization extend our deepest condolences to the Hartke Family. John was a valued member of our team as well as the community. He will be sorely missed by so many!

Forrest Andrews

August 8, 2023

John was probably the guy I looked up to the most back in my days as a junior at Flanders FD. He was always willing to help me out or give me advice if something was going on in my life, and I'll never forget all the times he took me fishing. That was 20+ years ago and I remember it like it was yesterday. To Andrea, his children, and the rest of his family, please know that my family's prayers are with you. Rest in peace, friend.

Mary Smith

August 8, 2023

Andrea and family, I’m so deeply sorry reading this. The years have passed and I have often thought of you fondly. Kicking myself now for not taking that extra minute to see where and how you guys were. You’ll always be one of my favorite bride and grooms and was my pleasure to preform you beautiful wedding. You’ll always have a special place in my heart. . Mary Smith

Mike Smith

August 8, 2023

There are not enough words to describe John as a person, husband, father, family member, fellow firefighter (Captain) but most of all friend. He never hesitated to assist me in any time of need when I was his fire chief and his loyalty to his department, community, family and friends never went unnoticed by me or many of his peers. My heart breaks for Andrea, his children, parents and brother as well as the numerous lives John had touched through his years. May loving, comforting thoughts be with you all during this time.

Rich Golden

August 8, 2023

This news saddened me deeply. I only knew John from our fishing club, but he always was jovial and friendly. Condolences to his family, especially his children.

Tracy Stedman

August 8, 2023

Andrea and Family,
My heart is heavy for your sudden loss of John. I pray your happy, loving memories will comfort you all, through the tough days ahead and for a lifetime. Sending you tight hugs Andrea. With Love and prayers

David Alberghini

August 8, 2023

I only got to know john for a brief time while we worked at Eversource together. Although that time was brief I knew John to be a generous and kind person. His sense of humor was also a source of great joy and laughter. John is already missed and I offer my heartfelt sympathy to his family and for all others who called John a friend.

Bill Rix

August 8, 2023

So sorry to hear about John. A good friend, he will be sadly missed. My heartfelt condolences to family.

Steven Galbo

August 8, 2023

John, the best person and friend anyone could’ve ever asked for! He was a giant of a man, would do anything for anyone, they broke the mold with him for sure! I’m a better person for knowing him. Miss you brother and the unbelievable great times we’ve had! Andrea and family I’m so sorry for your loss, it’s beyond words.

August 8, 2023

Much too young

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