Donald Hartjes

Donald P. Hartjes, age 80, passed away on Thursday, September 26, 2024. He was born on March 14, 1944, to the late Victor and Olive (Joslin) Hartjes. Don married the love of his life, Barbara Van Thiel, in Kimberly on June 15, 1967. Barbara preceded him in death on August 6, 2015.

Don served in the U.S. Army, and then worked most of his career at the Point Beach Nuclear Plant as an Instrument and Control Technician, as well as in engineering. He worked at Point Beach from the day it was built until his retirement. Don loved brewing beer, and began way back in the 1970's. He was proud of his many recipes, and still has the names of all his beers hanging in his basement. He and Barb enjoyed spending time at their camper on Robert's Lake. Don took many fishing trips to Canada and even one to Alaska. He and Barb loved going to shows at The Big Top up in Bayfield. Don and Barb spent a lot of time together with their four grandchildren, building so many lasting memories. In recent years, Don's favorite pastime was to sit on his deck with his children and order burgers from L and L. You can't beat that view! Whenever you entered his home, you were greeted with classical music and a beer!

Don is survived by his children, Lori (Bill) Lutzke, Randy Hartjes, Jeff (Charity) Hartjes; grandsons William and Christopher; granddaughters Grace and Claire: brother Norm Hartjes; sisters Nancy Pierce, Nola (Jerry Kusserow); Christy McCall; also many brothers and sisters-in-law.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Barb; his parents Victor and Olive Hartjes, his father and mother-in-law Roman and Evelyn (Brum) Van Thiel; and three brothers-in-law: Andy Pierce, Roger Schanke and Rick Van Thiel.

A Celebration of Life to honor Don will take place at a later date. Kinnard Funeral and Cremation Services is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be shared at KinnardFCS.com.