Dr. Daniel R. Hartig

MADISON-Dr. Daniel Hartig passed away at home from cancer on Tuesday, August 1, 2017. He was the son of Laurie Hartig of Green Bay, WI and Richard Hartig of Ft. Collins, CO.

Dan spent most of his formative years in Green Bay where he graduated from high school. He received his Bachelor's degree from UW-Eau Claire, moved to the Madison area, and taught in Royal Oaks Elementary School in Sun Prairie for 40 years. In his love of learning, and while teaching full-time, Dan earned both his Master's and Ph.D. degrees at UW-Madison. Most recently, and in his deep commitment to his profession and his students, Dan pursued and earned his National Board Certification in teaching, a difficult and distinguished accomplishment as an educator.

Students enjoyed Dan's teaching style and humor, and they discovered that learning could be fun. He especially loved teaching science to his students and always felt that science should be a ""verb"". Dan's peers respected him for his honesty, commitment, dedication, and thoughtful demeanor. Teaching was one of his passions, along with family, friends, world travel, photography, and personal learning.

Dan is survived by both of his parents, Laurie and Richard; and siblings, Diane, Steve (Chris), and Colleen (Deno).

A gathering will take place from 12-2:00 PM on Saturday, August 26, 2017 at the Cress Center, 6021 University Ave., Madison, WI 53705 with a Celebration of Dan's Life to begin at 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, Dan's family has established a memorial fund in his name at River Valley Bank. The funds will be donated to honor his memory in places he loved, possibly a memorial bench in his name at the Arboretum, the Crane Foundation, or a memorial item in a special National Park. Memorials donated are appreciated to the following address:

Dan Hartig Memorial Fund
c/o River Valley Bank
P O Box 1135
Minocqua, WI 54548.

Dan's family expresses deep gratitude to Eric, Daryl, Paul, Bob, Dave and other close friends who supported and helped Dan. Along with being life-long friends, you made him smile, laugh, and forget about his illness and were always there to help. We are greatly indebted to you.

We would also like to express a special thank you and deep appreciation to Dr. Shannon O'Mahar at Dean Clinic, Dr. Natalie Callander at UW Carbone Cancer Center, and their dedicated staffs. They not only guided Dan with their knowledge and expertise, but they did so with kindness, compassion, and humor. Dan was also touched by so many other wonderful healthcare professionals at Dean, UW Clinic & Hospital, and St. Mary's Hospital who helped him through his journey. There are too many to mention by name, but they will always be remembered by his family members.

Most importantly, family thanks our mom, Laurie, who raised Dan to be a thoughtful, kind, and considerate son, brother, and friend.

Dan touched many lives, and we are grateful for those who touched his life.

Cress Center
6021 University Ave.
Madison, WI 53705
608-238-8406