Michael 'Mike' Lynn Hartzler

Michael 'Mike' L. Hartzler, age 83, of Sidney, NE passed away in Sidney, NE on Monday, November 6, 2023. A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Monday, November 13, 2023 at Faith Methodist Church in Sidney, NE with Pastor Corey Jenkins officiating. Burial will follow at the Greenwood Cemetery in Sidney, NE. Services will be livestreamed on the Gehrig-Stitt Chapel Facebook page and recorded for later viewing on our website.

Friends may stop at Gehrig-Stitt Chapel on Sunday, November 12th from 4-6:00 P.M. to leave condolences, the family will be present.

You may view Mike's Book of Memories, leave condolences, photos and stories at http://www.gehrigstittchapel.com. Gehrig-Stitt Chapel & Cremation Service, LLC is in charge of Mike's care and funeral arrangements.

Mike was born on April 21st, 1940 in Bellefontaine, Ohio. With his parents, Helen and Raymond "Shorty" Hartzler, and sister, Phyllis, the family moved to Oshkosh, NE in 1947 where he attended grade school. They moved to Sidney in 1952 where he attended Sidney Public Schools until his graduation in 1959. Mike met the love of his life, Gladys, dragging main that same year. They were married November 12th, 1960 and would go onto have five beautiful children, 9 grandchildren, and even more great grandchildren in their 63 years of marriage.

Many knew Mike for his love of country and outspoken and unapologetic political beliefs. He served in the Army National Guard of Nebraska as a sharpshooter and marksman from 1958-1966, earning a marksman badge in 1965. Later, he was elected and served as City Councilman from 1978-1982 and wrote countless Letters to the Editor. Mike was a loyal supporter of the Sidney community serving the Volunteer Fire Department for 20 years. Mike was a plumber for 45 years and began working with his father. He eventually ran his own Hartzler Plumbing and Heating business for many years after his father retired. In his passion for preserving Sidney's history and legacy, Mike was one of the earliest and most dedicated members of the Boot Hill Committee. He was extremely active in the restoration and promotion of Camp Lookout from when the project started in 2009.

Mike was a proud supporter of his children's and grandchildren's athletic endeavors. He was always sure to be in attendance for the countless games and activities they participated in and even coached his son's t-ball and baseball teams. He also sponsored many softball teams over the years and served on little league and softball boards. Mike was a member of the Eagles and Elks Clubs as well. Mike enjoyed the outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman – a love he passed down to his children. His most loyal companions, dogs Rufus and Duke, were a crucial component to this part of his life and were some of Mike's greatest treasures.

Preceded in death by his parents Helen and Raymond "Shorty" Hartzler, Father and Mother-in-Law Armin and Minnie Onken; sons Alan and Mike Hartzler; grandson Marcus Hartzler; beloved pets Rufus and Duke.

He is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 63 years Gladys Hartzler; sister, Phyllis Willis; son, Brad Hartzler; son, Steve Hartzler and his wife, Angela; daughter, Traci Brachtenbach and her husband, Larry; daughter-in-law, Mickie Hartzler; daughter-in-law, Lori Hartzler; 8 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

           A reception at The Rock is to follow where lunch will be served. The family would like to express our thanks to the staff of Sidney Memorial Hospital for their wonderful care and comfort provided.