Donald C. Hartman

Of Elmira, NY passed away on his 94th birthday spending his last days at home with his loving family, to start his well deserved journey to be with his Lord, and with his family and friends who have gone before him. He was born the first day of summer of 1913, in Letonia, PA and went along the way in his own style the first day of summer on Thursday, June 21st, 2007.He was a remarkable man of many facets with great accomplishment for each of them. First and foremost was his fine character as a kind, caring, generous and loving man, which compelled all who knew him to cherish and adore him as the beautiful human being he was. Don Hartman was known as the Dean Of Musicians far beyond local circles, having entertained with banjo and guitar throughout the region for nearly 65 years, to include performing with the big bands such as Shep Fields and the Glenn Miller Orchestras, among other s of celebrity. He owned and operated the Knapp School of Music until the mid-60s, having taught many who became fine musicians. He was no less of an outdoor sportsman, and was legendary in his own time as an extraordinary fisherman, and was an avid bird hunter. He was also an outstanding athlete as a younger man in baseball and boxing, and any game he later was introduced to by his sons. He was in all respects a mans man. Survived by his wife, Lois, at home, sons Richard (Barbara) of Pine City, Ronald (Viola)of Elmira, and stepson David Anderson of Elmira. Grandchildren Mark, of Pine City, Steven of Sweden, Shon of France, Brigette of Niskayuna, NY, and Jason of Elmira, and loving sister-in-law Alma Hartman of Elmira, her five children, and great friends Carl Holly and Donald Groff of Pine City. Nine great grandchildren. Predeceased by his wife of 60 years, Patricia, sister Evelyn, brothers Harold and Leroy, step granddaughter Jessica Anderson, and best friends Aubrey Turck, Duane Curren and George Starkey. Don was a member of Southside Baptist Church for over 70 years, having served as a Deacon until disabled. Calling hours will be Sunday, June 24th from 1:00 to 4:00 PM. at the Olthof Funeral Home Inc., Elmira, followed by the funeral service to be conducted by Pastor David Daniels of Southside Baptist Church. A committal service for those wishing to be present will be held at Ashland Cemetery, Wellsburg, NY, Monday, June 25th at 1:00 PM. Those wishing to make donations in Dons name may send them to Southern Tier Hospice, 11751 East Corning Rd., Corning, NY 14830 or to the Southside Baptist Church, 601 Pennsylvania Ave., Elmira, NY 14904.A Candle of Remembrance may be left for the family in Obituaries at www.olthof.com.