Brian F. Hartnett

Brian F. Hartnett, 82, loving husband of Katherine (Wilcox) Hartnett, passed away on Sunday, January 11, 2026, with his family at his side. Brian was born May 28, 1943, in Hartford, son of the late Francis "Frank" and Margaret (Landers) Hartnett. He graduated St. Thomas Aquinas High School in 1961. As a child, Brian produced homemade 8mm movies with the neighborhood children. Immediately after high school, he began his lifelong dream of being a radio producer at WTIC radio, where he worked for 13 years, and produced the WTIC Hootenanny Road Show. He then became a media producer for Phoenix-Home Life Insurance, where he traveled the country and world producing various award shows, for 21 years. He was a classical music and old radio show aficionado, and avid reader. Along with his wife, they have provided loving care to foster children in the State of Connecticut for over 20 years. Brian pioneered, and assisted in the implementation of, the Connecticut State Law, which provided medical insurance coverage for foster and adoptive children.
He leaves behind his wife Katherine, son Matthew Hartnett of Weymouth, MA, and twin daughters Angelina and Rebecca Hartnett; granddaughter Allyson Graham, great-granddaughter Tayla Graham of Rochester, NY, sister-in-law Alice Hartnett and many nieces and nephews of Manchester. He was predeceased by his daughter Donna Elizabeth Hartnett Graham and brother Robert Hartnett. His family was one of his greatest joys.
A calling hour will be held on Saturday, January 17th, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. followed by a funeral home service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the The Village For Families and Children. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Brian, please visit our floral store.