Lee Hartwick

Surrounded by his loving family, Vance Lee Hartwick, 81, “Lee”, of Lower Paxton Township, passed away Wednesday, January 17, 2024, at the Osteopathic Hospital. 

Born January 14, 1943, in Harrisburg, he was the son of the late C. Richard and Marian (Spotts) Hartwick and was also preceded in death by his brother:  Richard Hartwick and sister:  Marian Anzolut.

He grew up in Shipoke and on Allison Hill with a passion for adventure and was known for keeping the local emergency rooms busy during his childhood. Lee graduated from John Harris High School in 1960 and was a proud member of Boy Scout Troop 49, playing trombone for both bands. He then enlisted in the US Navy and served his country as a Nuclear Technician on the USS Galveston. Lee's love for music shone through as he also directed the Navy band on board the Galveston.  As a young adult, Lee stayed active as the captain of several local volleyball teams and went through his "hippie" phase, embracing the spirit of the times. 

After his honorable discharge from the Navy, Lee earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Penn State in 1969. He joined his mother in the Harrisburg School District and began his fulfilling career in education. Lee taught Environmental Education, Math, and various other subjects at the middle school level. He was beloved by his students who fondly remember him taking them on outdoor adventures to teach them about the natural world and conservation. He also worked as a counselor for the Harrisburg Playground Program. Fueling his passion for learning and growth, he took additional classes at Millersville University and Shippensburg State College. As a dedicated educator, Lee was an active member of several educational associations including Pennsylvania, National and Harrisburg Education Association.

Upon retirement from teaching, Lee continued working as an awning salesman for Conservation Concepts. His exceptional sales skills earned him a top salesman award that even included a memorable trip to Spain and France. Lee was an avid traveler and embarked on numerous adventures with his beloved wife, Cathy. They explored various destinations across the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Japan, South Korea, and beyond. Lee enjoyed the outdoors and participated in activities such as cross country skiing, scuba diving, and caving. His love for nature led to his involvement and support of organizations such as the Audubon Society, Chesapeake Bay Foundation, and the Stoney Creek Coalition. He was also a member of the National Speleological Society and York Grotto. 

Lee was a member of the Market Square Presbyterian Church, volunteered at the Downtown Daily Bread with his wife.  As his commitment to civic duty, he was Judge of Elections for over 30 years in his home precincts.

 Music continued to be an important part of his life.  In addition to the Boy Scout and Navy bands, he was a valued member of the Washington Band in Annville, the Lower Paxton Township Variety Jazz Band, the Keystone Concert Band, and the Central Pennsylvania Symphony.

He is survived by his loving wife of over 42 years, Cathy J. (Hart) Hartwick; 2 daughters:  Jennifer L. Wickwar (Michael), Parker, CO, and Heather L. Brown (Brandon), Gardners, PA; 3 cherished grandchildren:  Etta J. and Sylvia L. Brown, and Owen B. Wickwar; his faithful companion kitty:  Alfie; his nieces and nephew:  Vicki, Carol, Rick, Lauren, Gayle, and Joyce, and their families; and many, many other family members and friends.

Burial with Military Honors will be held 12:30 pm, Friday, June 7, 2024 at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery.  If you plan to attend, meet in the parking area no later than 12:15 pm.

A Celebration of Life will be 1:00 pm, Saturday, June 8, 2024 at the Linglestown Legion Post 272, 505 N. Mountain Road, Harrisburg, followed by a luncheon at 2:00.  Please RSVP to rabbit7924@aol.com by May 29, 2024 if you plan on joining the family at the Legion.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to the Humane Society of Harrisburg Area, 7790 Grayson Rd, Harrisburg, PA 17111.

 Kimmel Funeral Home, Harrisburg, is handling arrangements.