Dennis Lawrence Hartner

Dennis Lawrence Hartner, 88, of Palm Harbor, Florida, died peacefully at home on August 16, 2025.

Dennis was born in Saginaw, Michigan in 1937 to parents Claudia and Lawrence Hartner. He grew up in Michigan and after graduation from high school in 1955, he joined the US Marine Corps. He served 4 years active duty and served in places including Korea and the Phillipines, earning the rank of Sergeant. Dennis was also a Disabled Veteran (DAV) and a member of the American Legion.

After his military service, he went to Saginaw Valley College and obtained an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration. During this time, Dennis met his future wife, Judith (Judy) Dukarski of Saginaw. Dennis and Judy were married on October 5, 1963 and have one daughter, Marcie Lynn Hartner. They began a new adventure and moved South to Florida in 1970. Dennis lived in Palm Harbor most of the 55 years spent in Florida.

Dennis was a caring, honest, dependable and hard-working man who was always there for those he loved. He enjoyed the outdoors and spent time boating and trout fishing in the Great Lakes of Michigan when younger. In Florida, Dennis loved Dunedin beach and would go for a swim frequently. He also loved animals and adopted 4 dogs over the years that were all very special to him. He always enjoyed taking his dog on long walks. Dennis had a special way with animals – all animals loved Dennis and he loved them.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, Claudia and Lawrence Hartner and sister, Glena Jean Hartner. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Judy Hartner, his daughter Marcie Hartner Blong and her husband Chris O’Neill, his two grandsons, Joshua Blong (and his wife Josie), and Jeremy Blong as well as his sister Andria Maier and his niece Lisa Zolinski and 3 nephews, Steven, Jeff and David Maier. Dennis will be greatly missed by all.