Eldon Hartter

E ldon William Hartter, 94, departed this world for heaven Sunday, February 22, 2015 at the Apostolic Christian Home in Sabetha, Kansas.

Eldon was born May 10, 1920 to William and Lucy (Wittmer) Hartter at their family home northwest of Berwick, Kansas where he also attended school.  Following his schooling, Eldon continued to work on the family farm and developed his skills as a mechanic working in auto garages in Sabetha and Denver, Colorado.  He married Betty Jean Eisenbise of Fairview, Kansas on October 9, 1941.  The couple setted in Denver where Eldon also worked in the munitions industry as World War II began.  When Eldon received his call to serve his county, he enlisted in the Army Air Force, serving as a B-25 crew chief.  His primary duty locations included Frederick, Oklahoma, where he trained pilots on the mechanics of their aircraft, and San Antonio, Texas, where he served as the personal crew chief for an Army Air Force Training Command General Officer.

Following his military service, Eldon and Betty returned to the Berwick area where he worked as a farmer, dairyman and DeKalb seed dealer.  Later, Eldon also was a welder and machinist at Wenger Mfg. while continuing to farm and sell seed.  The family moved to Sabetha in 1967, and Eldon continued an active life until just a few years before his death.

Eldon served his community as a school board member in Berwick and was a long time member of NorthRidge Church in Sabetha, serving as an usher and deacon for many years.  His Christian values were evident in his words, deeds and choices in life, and he is remembered for his quiet intelligence, quick smile and strong work ethic.  Eldon knew the love of the Father and reflected it in his love for his wife and family.

Eldon is survived by his wife, Betty of their home; a brother, Harold (Loretta) Hartter of Sabetha; a sister, Donna Hartter of Coffeyville; three children, Gary (Maggie) Hartter of Lindsborg, Alan (Sally) Hartter of Sabetha, and Joyce (Tony) Butts of Shawnee; nine grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren are also his legacy.  Preceding Eldon in death were his parents, a brother, Wilbur and a sister, Wilma King.

A celebration of Eldon’s life will be held Friday, February 27, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at the NorthRidge Church in Sabetha.  The family will receive visitors at the church one hour prior to the service.  Inurnment will be in the Sabetha Cemetery at a later date.  Memorial contributions may be made to the NorthRidge Church Building Fund and sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, KS 66534.