I was blessed to be in Dr. Hartman's final play at Schoolcraft College "Night Watch." he was so inspiring and knowledgeable. I was not notified of his passing until it was too late to attend his service, I apologize for this. I would like to express my deepest sympathies to his dear family and say Dr. Hartman was a great man and I will never forget the faith he had in me.

My father shared this unfortunate news recently after he had heard about it though another who had known of James.  I have to say his passing has affected me profoundly and I still can't believe I won't be able to see him again and hang out for pizza at the Starting Gate in Northville.  I too have had the pleasure of knowing him both professionally and as a friend outside the theater realm.
He was the quintessential taskmaster when it came to the theater.  If you so much as looked at your watch during a rehearsal, you obviously were in the wrong place.
One of the most passionate and strict instructor's of his discipline and yet as has been said thus far of those who knew him personally, was of the best caliber of people one could ever hope to have known.
Over time we have made efforts to connect despite the distance on opposite ends of the country, but I must say I've lost touch over the years.  Let it be known to all that this is a prime example of how paramount it is to make greater efforts to keep in contact with friends and family because you just never know.  The last time I saw Jim was when my mother and I visited him at Schoolcraft College several years back.  I'm most thankful for that to say the least.  The "you've lost a lot of weight" comment from a previous mention here...I can hear him saying that.
A quote I would always hear would be "films are god aweful" or something of that nature as he was not very fond of the cinema.
One of the great times we shared was attending the Old Globe productions of Taming of the Shrew at the outdoor theater and All Of My Sons at the indoor Carter theater.  Never got to the globe itself.  I would like to think that wherever his spirit is now he is attending, directing or perhaps performing at the original Globe as he never made it to England in this life.  I will miss you Jim. (Professor Hartman).
My sympathy and thoughts are with your friends, family and fellow thespians.
Most sincerest regards,
John

Dream sweetly, may angels craddle you to God's arms.

I am so Happy to know that Jimmy had such a successful & fulfilling life and that he followed his passion for education & his acting craft. My sympathy to Jean & his brother Ron and their family..

So sorry for your loss. May you find comfort and strength in God's promise found at John 6:40

James Hartman was without a doubt the kindest, most gentle and selfless person I have ever met. We have known him for over a decade, and always admired his unfailing good humour and courage in the face of adversity. He was an amazing person, but also a highly accomplished academic as his prize for best College Professor in the area attested. He will be sorely missed by all his friends here in Canada, myself, my husband Peter, and my sons Mark Tjalling and Peter Christopher. Laura Westra, Toronto,Canada.

Dr. Hartman clearly affected so many people.  I am just a small blip but I thoroughly enjoyed being a part of eight of his productions at Schoolcraft College.  My highlight was playing Lady Macbeth with amazing actors (led by Brian Taylor-Macbeth). These experiences yielded many wonderful friendships, even though they are challenged by growing families and geography.  However, we will always be connected through the legacy that is Dr. Hartman.  Thank you.  I smile when you said to me one of the last times I saw you and you hugged me and then said "wow, you have lost a ton of weight, you look great."  I know it came from the sweet part of his heart!

My heart is breaking.  This is so sad.  He was an amazing talent with so much to offer to us, his students.  
I'd like to share one memory of Jim.  He always used to tell us that driving completely bored him so he would read books while he drove.  Too funny!!! 
My sympathy to his family and prayers of peace and rest to Mr. (Dr.) Hartman.  ❤
James Chappell (Former Student)

Prof. Hartman was a brilliant teacher, director, and person.  His love of acting made everyone appreciate what a worthy and laudable craft it is. He truly cared about his students, shows, and theatre. I had the great pleasure of being in a couple of his shows and taking several of his classes. My favorite time in college was during his production of the Scottish play. I met many people then who are now dear friends. I owe him so much for that exceptional experience.  It enriched me as a person and a thespian to have had the amazing honor of working with him. It deeply saddens me me to hear of his passing but I know my life is better for having known him. Thanks for everything,  Mr. Hartman.  And puh-leeeeease!!

OBITUARY

James Robert Hartman

June 11, 1943 – May 3, 2017

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