Ralph G. Hartmann

Ralph G. Hartmann, 85, Sister Bay, Wis., died Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2014.

He was born Jan. 25, 1928, in Oak Park to Werner and Esther Hartmann.

On Sept. 17, 1949, he married Vivian Mae Reek.

He was a graduate of the Chicago Art Institute. He was a member of Shepherd of the Bay Lutheran Church and a long-time member of the Sister Bay Lions Club, and was awarded the Melvin Jones Award. His love and passion were art, music and family. He and his wife were owners and operators of Hartmann Sign Studio for 40 years.

Survivors include a son, Donald J. (Lisa) Hartmann, Woodstock; two daughters, Carol J. (Marc) Champeau, Ellison Bay, Wis., and Judy H. (Greg) Cain, Jefferson, Ga.; five grandchildren, Daniel, Sarah, Jennifer, Katie and Rebecca; and seven great-grandchildren, Kaylee, Lily, Cameron, Cannon, Wilburn, Taylor and Berkeley.

He was preceded in death by his wife Aug. 11, 2012.

Visitation and funeral were held Jan. 18 at Shepherd of the Bay Lutheran Church, Ellison Bay.

Arrangements were made by Casperson Funeral Home.