John Hartwig

Hartwig, John Arnold age 86, born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, April 26, 1925, passed away 11/14/11. Preceded in death by father, Harvey C. Hartwig, mother Ruth Arnold Hartwig, sisters Elizabeth and Jean, brothers William and David. Survived by sister Edith, Littleton, NC, beloved wife of 59 years, Mary, children David (Becki), Ann Sakellson (Jeff), Paul (Lisa), Martha Ripon (Paul), Steve (Karen), grandchildren Erin, Guy, Jack, Elise, Maddie, Peter, Isabel, great-grandson Andre, and many nieces and nephews. He attended St. John's Military Academy in Delafield, WI, and upon graduation at age 18, volunteered for enlistment in the US Army. He served with the 84th and 97th Infantry Divisions and ultimately in the European Theater with the 9th Infantry Division serving in three campaigns: the Rhineland, the Ardennes (Battle of the Bulge), and Central Europe. When the war ended, he entered Dartmouth College and then Dartmouth Medical School. He finished his formal medical education at the University of Minnesota, followed by an internship at Dartmouth. A return to Minnesota led to a four year fellowship in Orthopaedics at the Mayo Clinic and then an offer to practice with Orthopaedic Consultants, PA. He was later encouraged to develop an interest in cervical spine injuries, and was a pioneer in his field. He served as Chief of Staff of Fairview Hospital in 1969 and was an active member for 35 years. He was an original property owner in Vail, CO, and enjoyed skiing into his eightieth year. He helped initiate a tradition of skiing with a group of doctors from Fairview Hospital every year, and that tradition continues. He also enjoyed sailing on Lake Minnetonka, and playing golf and tennis. He was a man of the highest integrity, both professionally and personally. His kindness, patience, gentleness and humility cannot be surpassed. The family would like to thank the many physicians and nurses involved in his care. Memorials to Christ Presbyterian Church or the Fairview Foundation are suggested. Memorial service will be held Monday, Nov. 21 at 1:00 PM, with visitation beginning at 11:30 AM at Christ Presbyterian Church, 6901 Normandale Rd. (70th St & Hwy. 100), Edina. Reception to follow at church. Interment Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Washburn-McReavy Edina Chapel 952-920-3996

John Hartwig

November 20, 2011

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