Robert Hartgers

Robert "Bob" Hartgers passed away peacefully at the age of 97, leaving behind a life defined by faith, family, friendship, and love. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great- grandfather, veteran, businessman, and friend whose kindness and steady presence touched generations.

Bob was born and raised in Paterson, New Jersey, to Martin and Wilhemina Hartgers. As a teenager, he spent his summers working in Ocean Grove. It was there that he met his best friend, Charles Whiteman, and Charles’s sister, Alicia, who became the love of his life. Together, Bob and Alicia built a marriage that spanned 68 beautiful years and a family that became his greatest pride and joy.

After high school, Bob followed in his father's footsteps and commuted to New York City's Diamond District, learning the trade of diamond setting that had been passed down through generations of the Hartgers family. Through dedication, strong values, and a keen business sense, he built what would become Hartgers Jewelers, a business that his four sons joined and dedicated their careers to. It was his proudest professional accomplishment to work alongside his sons and watch them carry the family business into its next generation.

At 21, Bob was drafted into the United States Army. After training as an infantry rifleman, he was selected for the Counterintelligence Corps, receiving top-secret security clearance and serving for two years in Washington, D.C. His integrity and sense of duty remained with him throughout his life.

When Bob returned home from military service, he and Alicia began building their life together. They made a home in Wyckoff, New Jersey for their four sons, and later found even greater joy in welcoming 12 grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

Alicia and Bob spent many wonderful summers at the Jersey Shore surrounded by family. He is fondly remembered in his tennis whites, having loved playing tennis with friends at Bay Head Yacht Club and Indian Trail Club. In addition to the value he placed on family, Bob was a true friend to many. He cultivated lifelong friendships with authenticity and sincerity.

Above all else, Bob was a man of deep faith. He approached life with gratitude and a belief that he was guided by God. In his own words, "The Lord has seen me through everything. I did
nothing on my own."

Bob’s family finds comfort in knowing that his 97 years were filled with family, faith, and strong values that live on through his children and grandchildren. Though he will be deeply missed, the example he set will continue to endure.

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