Steven A. Hartman

Steven A. Hartman, 49, of South Bend, Indiana, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family. Born on October 10, 1975, in Niles, Michigan, Steve was the son of Glenn Hartman and Earline Fitzgerald (Freeman). His life was marked by an unwavering commitment to his family, a heart as big as his laugh, and a sense of humor that brought joy to everyone he met.
Steve was the kind of man who never met a stranger. His personality lit up every room he entered. Known for his quick wit, sharp comebacks, and playful sarcasm, Steve had a unique ability to make people laugh even in the darkest moments. Teasing was his love language, and anyone who knew him well could count on being on the receiving end of a joke, a chuckle, or one of his unforgettable back-popping bear hugs. His humor wasn't just for laughs-it was a way of showing love, lifting spirits, and building connections.
He had a passion for many things in life-loud country music, a good shot of Jack Daniel's, and the open road. But his greatest love by far was for his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who poured every ounce of himself into those he loved. Whether he was working under the hood of a car, fishing with his kids, sitting by the fire pit, or planning the next family vacation, Steve found joy in simple, meaningful moments shared with those closest to him.
On July 28, nearly 18 years ago, Steve married the love of his life, Angie-a moment he often called one of his proudest and most cherished achievements. Their marriage was built on a foundation of laughter, loyalty, and unwavering support. Angie was not only his partner but his rock, and Steve credited her with making his life fuller, happier, and more meaningful. Their bond was evident to everyone who knew them, and together they built a life centered on love, family, and unshakable togetherness.
Steve found immense pride and fulfillment in being a father. Becoming a dad to Adam and Nathan, and later to Samantha, gave him a renewed sense of purpose and joy. He never said "no" to Samantha or Angie-his devotion to them was unmatched. He always showed up-no matter what life threw his way, he provided, protected, and loved with his whole heart. His children remember a father who never missed a chance to say "I love you," who taught them patience, kindness, and how to find humor in every situation.
His grandkids-Mason, Gavin, and Clara-were the light of his later years. Grandpa Steve cherished every moment with them, whether he was goofing around, handing out life lessons, or showing them how to fish. His love for them was boundless, and his memory will live on through the laughter and values he instilled in them.
A skilled mechanic, Steve could fix just about anything and was always eager to lend a hand-no matter the time, no matter the cost. He lived by the belief that if someone needed help, you helped. Friends, neighbors, and even strangers knew they could count on him. His heart was enormous, and his generosity knew no bounds.
From his family:
"Thank you. I love you. Thank you for being the man you were. Thank you for raising us to be who we are today."
Steven A. Hartman will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and endlessly loved by all who knew him.
His legacy is one of laughter, loyalty, and love. He taught those around him the importance of showing up, speaking honestly, and loving without limits. Family gatherings won't be the same without his booming laugh, his stories, his jokes, and the warmth he brought into every room.
Steve is preceded in death by his father, Glenn E. Hartman, and his brother, Louis West.
He is survived by his mother, Earline Fitzgerald; his loving wife, Angie Hartman; his children, Nathan Starzynski, Adam Starzynski, and Samantha Hartman; his siblings, Robert (Karen) West and Katrina (Tom) Schrimsher; and his grandchildren, Mason, Gavin, and Clara Starzynski.
A celebration of Steve's life will be held at Saint Patrick's County Park in the Hurwich Shelter on 7/26/25 from 3-6pm, 50651 Laurel Rd, South Bend, IN 46637, where family and friends will gather to share stories, laughter, and memories in honor of the remarkable man he was.
To leave a message for the family, please go to ChapelHillMemorial.com