A graduate of Southeast High School, he served in the Navy, both active and reserve. On his return he attended Kansas City Aero Mechanics School, worked at Bendix, and then TWA for 32 years as a mechanic. He loved singing and was in the choir at Colonial Presbyterian Church for over 50 years and was a 50+ year member of the Barbershop Harmony Society. He was also a member of Delaware Crossing Chapter Sons of the American Revolution and Grandview VFW Post 8100.
He enjoyed sailing, and built a wooden gaff rig sloop in which he taught his daughter the art of sailing. He also enjoyed all things airplane and served many years as the mechanic for the KC Navy Aero Club at Richards Gebauer. He was a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association and attended their annual AirVenture for many years in Oshkosh. He also belonged to Vintage Aircraft Chapter 16, Antique Aircraft Association, Replica Fighters Association and the Great War Association. He built and flew a 7/8 scale replica WWI Nieuport 11 biplane. At local fly-ins at Gardner Airport, he was better known as the pancake man, having put on annual pancake breakfasts there for years. He was also known for his tall tales, and was often heard breaking into song or a Robert Service poem for no apparent reason!
Dick was preceded in death by his parents Richard Mungen Hartzler and Martha Olive Boyd Hartzler, his sister Jane Hartzler Cain and brother William Roy Hartzler.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Isle Mona Halliburton Hartzler, daughter Amanda Jean Hinote (Chris), grandson Wake, sister Nancy Hartzler Garrett (Tom), and loving nieces and nephews.
The family wishes to thank Foxwood Springs Senior Living and Monarch Hospice for their care and concern. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to Colonial Presbyterian Church, Wayside Waifs Animal Shelter or Grandview VFW Post 8100.
