HARTGER, HAROLD Grand Rapids, Michigan Harold Hartger, precious child of God, devoted husband, wonderful father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and dedicated servant of the Lord Jesus Christ passed from this life into eternity on April 19, 2014. Born in 1918, he grew up in Jenison, MI, attending a one-room school, helping his father, Ben, in the general store, and playing the organ at First Jenison CRC at age 15. He graduated from Calvin College in 1939 and began teaching Latin and English at his alma mater, Grandville High School. In June of 1941, he was inducted into the Army Air Corps where he served as a cryptographer in British Guiana, the Panama Canal, Brazil, and Ascension Island. Always a leader, he quickly rose to the rank of captain. He used his leadership skills on many church committees, church council, school board, and as manager of Peninsular Steel Company. He loved writing notes to others and enjoyed being editor of his business, church, and condo newsletters. Through the years, he has blessed many with his musical gifts, playing the organ and piano, directing choirs, leading Bible School songs, and singing with the residents of Raybrook. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 67 years, Bette (Lautenbach) Hartger. His unselfish love and Christ-like faith will always be remembered by his 3 children (names edited out); his seven very loved grandchildren and their spouses, his 16 delightful great grandchildren; two brothers-in-law, two sisters-in-law, many loved extended family members, and friends. His love and service was a song which flowed from a grateful heart of thankfulness and praise. A service celebrating his life will be held Wednesday, 10:30 AM at the Raybrook Manor Chapel (2121 Raybrook, SE). The family will greet relatives and friends Tuesday, 5-8 PM at the Zaagman Memorial Chapel (2800 Burton St. SE) and from 9:00-10:15 AM on Wednesday at Raybrook Manor. Memorial contributions can be made to Seymour Christian Reformed Church Chr. Education Committee.
Published in Grand Rapids Press from Apr. 19 to Apr. 22, 2014