Walter Lee Hartenberger

Walter Lee Hartenberger

 May 22, 1928 - November 11, 2008 

November 11, 2009 -

It's been a year since we last saw you.  We went up to Willamette today, and once again, the rainy clouds parted to let the beautiful Fall sunshine through.  We think of you everyday, and miss you especially today.  Love you!

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May 22, 2009 -

Happy Birthday!  It's a beautiful, sunny day here, and we wish you were here with us to enjoy the sunshine.  We all love you and miss you.

This memorial website was created to remember our beloved patriarch, Walter Hartenberger, who passed away peacefully at home while surrounded by his family, on November 11, 2008.

Our family wishes to thank everyone for their love and support.  We welcome you to join us in celebrating Fritz's life by sharing your favorite memories and photos on this website.  (Choose one or more of the links on the left)

To view the Memorial Tribute Video, click here: 
 

For all other videos, go to the Video/Audio page, or click here:

http://walter-hartenberger.last-memories.com/index.php?co=media

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Saturday, November 22, 2008

A Memorial Service and Celebration of Life was held on November 22 at Hope Lutheran Church in Woodburn.  The sun peeked through the overcast skies, and kept the rain at bay.  Pastor Paul Linnemann (Mom and Dad's Pastor from Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Tigard) led the service.  He expertly wove the stories about Dad into the Old Testament, Gospel and New Testament Readings.  Sanna Bunnell sang a beautiful version of "Abide with Me", which was Dad's favorite song.  And eldest son Brett gave a very touching Eulogy, in the spirit of Dad's humor.  It was a wonderful, meaningful tribute, and left the crowd in combined tears and laughter.

A reception and luncheon followed in the Church Hall.  The family presented a Memorial Video entitled "Fritz's Life Lessons" (included on the Video/Audio page of this website). 

It was so wonderful to see so many dear friends.  We think Dad would have loved his "last party".

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Friday, November 21, 2008

Dad's ashes were interred at Willamette National Cemetery on November 21.  We had agreed that if the weather cooperated, Brett would transport the ashes to the Cemetery on Dad's beloved Gold Wing motorcycle.  As of Thursday, the forecast was for rain.  But when we woke up Friday morning, the sun was shining brightly - Dad must have really wanted his "last ride".  We met at Cami's house, and followed Brett in a processional up to Willamette.

We met at one of the covered shelters, and experienced a very moving Military Honors Ceremony, which included the unfurling, folding and presentation of the flag, a gun salute, the presentation of the spent shell casings, and the playing of Taps by a buglar on a distant hill.  Pastor Paul Linnemann presided over the event.   

We again followed the processional up the hill to the new Columbarium.  It overlooked the valley, and had a prominent view of Mt. Hood.  It was a beautiful setting, and the clouds that had gathered while we were in the shelter broke once again to provide us with warm sunshine during the placement.

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"Fritz" is survived by his wife of 58 years, Mary;  daughters Manette Zehrung (Don), Shari Craig (Ron), and Cami Bunnell (Greg); sons Brett (Karla) and Jason (Andrea); 11 grandchildren: Ashley Wilson (Ryan), A.J. Hartenberger, Annika Zehrung, Erika Hartenberger, Netania Craig, Micaela Craig, Justin Hartenberger, Dylan Hartenberger, Emily Bunnell, Katie Bunnell, Chandler Hartenberger; and 1 great-granddaughter: Ryley Wilson.

The family suggests remembrances to the Washington County Hospice Program.