Michael Hartwell

Michael James Hartwell, beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend, and lifelong storyteller, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2025, at the age of 73.

Born on March 14, 1952, in Cedar Falls, Iowa, Michael was the eldest of three children and spent his youth exploring the countryside, tinkering with radios, and developing the curiosity that would define his life. He attended Northern Plains University, where he studied engineering and met the love of his life, Patricia. They married in 1976 and shared 49 wonderful years together.

Michael built a successful career as a civil engineer, helping design bridges, parks, and community projects throughout the Midwest. Though proud of his professional accomplishments, he always said his greatest achievement was his family.

He was a devoted husband to Patricia Hartwell; a loving father to Daniel Hartwell and Emily Reynolds; and a cherished grandfather to Ava, Lucas, Sophie, and Benjamin. His grandchildren knew him as "Grandpa Mike," the man who could fix anything, tell the best stories, and somehow make every family gathering feel like an adventure.

Michael had a passion for woodworking, fishing, and restoring vintage bicycles. His workshop was filled with half-finished projects and handwritten notes, each representing another idea he was excited to bring to life. He never met a stranger and had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome.

Friends and family will remember Michael for his steady presence, quiet generosity, and unmistakable laugh. Whether offering practical advice, lending a helping hand, or simply listening, he left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Eleanor Hartwell. He is survived by his wife Patricia; his children Daniel and Emily; his four grandchildren; his siblings Thomas and Susan; and many nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors who became family over the years.

A celebration of Michael's life will be held on September 20, 2025, at the Riverside Community Center. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to local literacy programs, a cause that reflected Michael's lifelong belief that every story deserves to be shared.

Though deeply missed, Michael's legacy lives on in the bridges he built, the lessons he taught, and the countless memories he created with those he loved.

"The stories we share become the footprints we leave behind." — Michael Hartwell