Mark Robert Hartman

Mark Robert Hartman, age 66, of Altoona, Wisconsin, passed away at his home on January 11, 2026.

Mark was born on July 2, 1959, in Wabasha, Minnesota, to Robert and Dorothy (Kuhn) Hartman. He was raised in Alma, Wisconsin, where he developed the roots and values that remained with him throughout his life. From an early age, Mark learned the value of hard work. At just 14 years old, he began working on The Great Alma Fishing Float on the Mississippi River. During those early years, he also spent countless hours fishing alongside his grandparents in Alma and Kewaunee, Wisconsin. These experiences helped foster a lifelong love of fishing that remained an important part of his life.

Mark proudly served his country in the United States Army, enlisting in 1977 and serving with the 3rd Infantry until 1981. He completed basic training at Fort Knox, Kentucky, before being stationed at Larson Barracks in Kitzingen, Germany, where he remained for the next three years. During his off-duty hours, he traveled throughout Europe with his fellow service members, forming lifelong memories that he shared with pride for the rest of his life. In 2025, he had the opportunity to return to Europe, taking a river cruise on the Rhine and Danube with his wife, Mary. He was especially happy to show her the places he had visited during his time in the service.

After his honorable discharge from the Army, Mark moved to Eau Claire, Wisconsin, where he enrolled at CVTC and earned a degree in diesel mechanics while also taking history courses at the university. During this time, he began working at UPS, where he spent the next 30 years as a driver. Mark enjoyed his customers and the people along his route, often taking the time to get to know them and their pets and farm animals. There was rarely a dog or even the occasional goat that went without a treat when he stopped by. He was known for his dedication and strong work ethic and was a member of the Milwaukee Drivers Union, proudly serving as a Teamster.

In 1983, Mark met Mary under simple but memorable circumstances, she was moving out of a house just as he was moving in. At the time, Mary was attending X-ray school and focused on her education and future career. Their relationship grew steadily from that chance meeting, and they were married in 1986. Together they built a life that included raising their two wonderful children, Samantha and Mitchell. Eau Claire is where they spent most of their years together and raised their family.

Mark enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially fishing and ice fishing in Chetek, Wisconsin. He also enjoyed hunting deer, squirrels, and birds, appreciating the quiet patience and tradition that came with it. In his spare time, he liked metal detecting, always hoping to uncover a unique find to add to his coin collection.

He is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Mary Hartman; his daughter, Samantha Hartman (Chad); his son, Mitchell Hartman (Heather); his cherished grandson, Theodore Solomon; and his beloved grandpup, Monte. He is also survived by his father Robert Hartman; three sisters, Carol (Carl) Roberts, Julie Roubik, and Patty Hartman; one brother, Michael (Deb) Hartman; as well as many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy Hartman; his grandparents, John and Olena Hartman, and Francis and Anne Kuhn; his mother and father-in-law, Leo and Frances Huebel; and his two brothers-in-law, Roger Huebel and Thomas Roubik.

Mark will be remembered for his generosity and kindness toward everyone, his sense of humor, and his sincere love for his family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life for Mark will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, in Alma, Wisconsin, at the Rod and Gun Club from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. There will be a private family burial with military honors prior to the celebration.