WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Robert L. Hartman, age 87, of Lakeland, Florida, went to his eternal home to be with Jesus on Friday, February 18, 2022.
Robert (Bob) Hartman was born in 1934 to Leslie and Ruth (Gerdes) Hartman. He spent his early years growing up in Colon as a very active boy, hunting, fishing and helping neighbors in the community. He graduated with the class of 1952. Robert attended the Colon Church of God.
After high school, Robert joined the Michigan National Guard 246th Tank Battalion Company C and retired after 23 years of service. He worked at Ward and Frisbie Chevrolet in Colon, and Jack Royeton Chevrolet-Cadillac in Sturgis. He was an accomplished auto mechanic in all phases of the trade.
In 1966, he started his own business, Hartman’s Gulf Station in Colon.
In 1978, Robert moved to Lakeland, Florida, where he had his own auto repair garage.
After retirement, Robert worked for 6 years for a Super Late Model racing team.
Robert enjoyed photography. He loved working on his family history and spent many years on the history of Colon, creating many detailed books for the Colon Historical Society.
Robert attended the K-Ville Assembly of God in Auburndale, Florida.
He is survived by his children, Robert (Brad) (Gail) Hartman, Tim Hartman, Darrel (Cherie) Hartman, Rena (Bruce) Cooley, Lowell (Kisha) Hartman and Heather (Patrick) Smith, 13 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, a nephew, Rob Hartman, and nieces Cristen Hartman and Corrie (Issac) Drum.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother, Richard Hartman.
Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life service will be held Saturday, March 19, 2022, beginning with visitation at 10:00 AM, followed by the service at 11:00 at the K-Ville Assembly of God church in Auburndale, FL. There will also be a Celebration of Life service held on Saturday, April 2, 2022, beginning with visitation at 10:00 AM followed by the service at 11:00, at Cornerstone Community Church of God in Colon.
If memorial donations are desired, K-Ville Assembly of God, Cornerstone Community Church, or Colon Historical Society are suggested by the family.
