Ronald Elroy Hartling

Ronald E. Hartling

A warm, caring, generous 76 year old husband, father & grandpa has finally found peace after suffering far too long from cancer and its debilitating treatments.

His early childhood gave him a solid character foundation growing up on a farm developing strength, a can-do attitude, and the rewards of team work to get the job done right.

The draft notice came as the Vietnam war raged. Lacking heel spurs he opted to enlist for 3 years choosing to learn the intricacies of the machinist trade, assuming such would not be needed in a war zone. So wrong. Ended up having his own little shop van repairing damaged equipment. He grew in metal knowledge and experience which ultimately sustained him throughout his civilian working career, retiring from Dynex.

A relaxing diversion and an opportunity to be meticulously creative in another format found him hand carving cedar into Native American type flutes. Truly gorgeous.

He had a great respect for Native American culture and their dedication to protecting Mother Earth. Birding also captured his heart along with camping.

Harley motorcycles did not keep nature’s qualities at a distance, so from teen throughout his entire life, he had many. His last was a conversion to a trike that, sadly, he had only driven around the block three times. His body was too weak.

Except for motorcycles, his sons, Jon and Brian mirror their Dad’s passion for being meticulous and having light hearted, warm personalities. Yes, they made their Dad so proud.

Brian has his ladies too. Brooke, his loving wife and delightful Robyn and Rudy, the girls. Happy Grandpa.

Having been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2021, there was challenge after challenge. Taken to heart were teachings learned at Sunday Mass each week. Then, too, on a bedroom wall, often catching a glance, was a craft item he had completed as a teen. “Trust in the Lord”

Fifty-one years of marriage. Truly soul mates throughout. The spirt left him as he slumped into her arms. Being his primary care giver, basically 24/7, was an honor and a privilege. He will always be a part of her….Sharon…Sha-Ron.