The world lost an amazing man. Skip passed away following a 50 year courageous battle with diabetes and all it’s complications including kidney disease, strokes, heart disease, and finally cancer. Skip was born in 1950 to Lyle and Margaret Hartje. He attended schools in Ballard, and graduated from the UW with a degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1972. Skip was co-owner of Ballard Hardware and worked there for over 40 years. Skip leaves behind his wife Barbara, sons Tyler and Zach, brother Greg, sisters in law Cathy Hartje and Carla White, nieces Kelly (John) Reynolds and Lyndsey (Robert) McEwen, aunt and uncle Anna and Jim Freyberg, many cousins and countless friends. Skip was was a gracious man who never complained about his many health challenges. His greatest legacy was his ability to make those around him better people. He brought out the goodness in others. Our family wishes to thank his primary care doctor Karen Miller and the good doctors, nurses, PTs, OTs and staff at Northwest Hospital. These wonderful people took care of Skip for the past 4 years. We are grateful for your tender healing. We also wish to thank Deann Scheving, Carla White, Renie Rodden, Cindy Dyck and Abdoulie Jallow for your loving care of Skip. In lieu of flowers we request that donations be made to Cascade Youth Symphony Organization, American Diabetes Association and Epiphany Lutheran Church in Kenmore. Memorial Service at Epiphany Lutheran Church in Kenmore on Thursday, October 6th at 7:00 pm.
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