Michael E. Hartje Sr.

Mike E. Hartje, 78, died peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loved ones, on September 9, 2012. He was born on March 16, 1934 in Marvell, Arkansas to the late Opie Brooks and Katherine Whitaker Hartje. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Dorothy Dayer Hartje, four children, Laura Gladwin (Bob), Lisa George, Mike Hartje, Jr. and Melinda Marston (Otis), and 10 grandchildren, Katherine Hahn (William), Carter Rook (Whitney), Annie Rook, Josie George Richardson (Victor), Ike George, Emma, Jace and Erin Hartje, and Katherine and Cole Marston. After graduating from Conway High, Mike served his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict, dutifully (and successfully) defending the shores of Hawaii from enemy invasion, while also providing musical entertainment at the Officer's Club on Hickam Air Force Base. Upon completion of his military service, Mike returned home with his wife and oldest daughter, attended Hendrix College and went on to own and operate several businesses, as well as work for several large organizations. Like his father, he was a professional salesman who used his innate talent to sell everything from greeting cards to auto parts to shoes to furniture. In his later working years and during retirement, he begrudgingly decided to start taking advantage of the travel opportunities presented by his wife (the "Cruise Queen"), and they proceeded to travel over the following 25 years to the four corners of the world. The family wishes to thank Mike's special caregiver and friend, Megan Madden, who provided him with much comfort and solace in his most trying times. The family will receive visitors at Roller-McNutt Funeral Home in Conway on Tuesday, September 11, from 2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m., to be followed by a graveside memorial at Oak Grove Cemetery at 4 pm, Conway, Arkansas. The Online guest book can be signed at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.