Thomas J. Hartwick, age 78 of Centerville, passed away October 14, 2020. He was born May 29, 1942 in Bay City, MI to the late Cecil R. and Lillian (Hasso) Hartwick, Sr. In addition to his parents, Tom was preceded in death by his infant son, Matthew John Hartwick.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Ruth Hartwick; children, Paul Hartwick, Amy (Bruce) Lesemann and Andrew (Nancy) Hartwick; grandchildren, Abigail and Gabriel Lesemann; siblings, Melanie Gelow (Michael Wright), Cecil (Genny) Hartwick, Jr. and William (Bonnie) Hartwick; brothers and sisters-in-law, Edwin (Karin) Riske, Jr., John (Lois) Riske, Grace (Dale) Rosema, Lois (John) Sullivan and James (Terri) Riske; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends.
Tom completed his undergraduate degree in electrical engineering at the University of Michigan, where he met the love of his life, Ruth. Later he got a Masters in statistics from Northwestern University in Illinois. He worked for over 30 years at U.S. Steel – at South Works, Texas Works, and Gary Works – as an area manager. He "retired" from there to take a job as division manager at A.K. Steel for a few years before retiring for good.
Tom enjoyed music, photography, gardening, reading, playing the piano, doing puzzles and helping family and friends with their computer complications. He also loved to travel with Ruth. He was a faithful friend, and one that you could count on for good advice. His children counted him as a best friend, and "Gramps" loved to dote on his grandchildren.
He had a strong faith in Christ Jesus as his Savior and was a faithful servant in his church. He was a Stephen Minister, sang in the church choir, and seemed to always be involved in a church building project. Tom had a good sense of humor and loved to laugh with family and friends.
Tom was a devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather.
Family will receive friends from 5-8 PM on Thursday, October 22, 2020 at Newcomer Funeral Home, Centerville Chapel, 820 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd., Dayton, 45459. A private service will be held at the convenience of the family. Interment will be at St. Paul Lutheran Church Cemetery in Matteson, IL early next week.
Flowers, cards, and memorial contributions are all welcome. Memorials are requested for Living Waters Lutheran Church or for Mission Central.
To share a memory of Tom or leave his family a special memory, please click on the Share Memories button above.