Stuart Hardtke

McFarland - Stuart B. "Stu" Hardtke, age 70, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, February 7, 2012 at Heritage Monona, of an assumed cardiac event. Stu was born on March 24, 1941, in Lansing, Michigan, the son of Herbert and Irma Hardtke. Stu graduated from DeWitt High School, DeWitt, Michigan in 1959. After graduating from high school, Stu served four years in the United States Air Force, including 2 years in Germany. After serving, Stu attended and graduated from Michigan State University. Stu was united in marriage to Julie A. Ducat on December 16, 1961. Stu spent his entire working career at Madison School Community Recreation (MSCR). Prior to his Alzheimer's diagnosis, Stu was very active. He was a member of the McFarland Lions Club, the American Legion, the Yahara Fishing Club, the Hope Rod & Gun Club, the Wisconsin Land Owners Association, the National Rifle Association and Ducks Unlimited. Stu's interests included bowling, slow pitch softball, hunting, fishing and anything outdoors. After Stu's retirement he spent many days on the property he co-owned with friends in the Fennimore area working on prairie restoration and wildlife habitat. Stu is survived by his wife of 50 years, Julie; his daughters, Cindy (Scott) Klingbeil of Chandler, AZ, Becky (David) Welch of Madison, Jenny (Malcolm) Thorne of Ascot, England; his three grandchildren, Brandon, Grace and Kate; and his sister Virginia (Robert) Zeeb of Bath, Michigan; as well as many other family and friends. Stu was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Irma Hardtke. A Celebration of Stu's Life will start with a Pass in Review at 11:00 AM on Saturday, February 11, 2012 at Cress Funeral Home in McFarland and conclude with full Military Honors. Friends and relatives are invited to a luncheon immediately following the services at the McFarland American Legion. Friends may greet the family from 9:30 AM until the time services Saturday. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's and Dementia Alliance of Southern Wisconsin, the National Wildlife Federation or to the McFarland American Legion Edwards-Foye Post 534. Stu will be remembered for his wonderful smile & great sense of humor. He was quick to volunteer in many different projects & activities. Even as his Alzheimer's disease progressed, his warm smile and friendly spirit helped make a difficult situation a little better. Stu was dearly loved by his family & many friends. Dad- we love you with all of our hearts and will miss you deeply. Although you are gone, you will forever be with us.