William T. Hartman

William T. (“Bill”) Hartman, 94, went home to his Savior Jesus on February 23, 2024.  He was the beloved son of the late William F. and Dorothy (nee Swenson) Hartman of Philadelphia.

 William is survived by his loving children, Rita A. Essaf (John), Thomas W. Hartman (Ann Marie Byrnes); sister Dorothy Connors (James), niece Judy Derek, her husband and 3 sons; and by his long-time companion, Mary Jane Klecko.  Bill was predeceased by his dear wife Henrietta (nee Naylor) in 2009, his Son-in-law John J. Essaf in 2023, and his brother-in-law Jim.

 Bill worked as a mechanical engineer for Philadelphia Electric Co. (PECO) for 38 years, holding various positions in the electric generating and maintenance divisions.  He finished his PECO career in 1992, retiring from the position of supervising engineer.

 A graduate of Drexel University’s engineering program, Bill earned his degree at night while working full-time at PECO and raising a family.

 Before his employment at PECO, Bill served his country in the Army Security Agency’s (ASA’s) Communications Reconnaissance unit during the Korean War, holding the rank of sergeant, and subsequently in the Army Reserves for several years. 

 Based on his military experience and communications interest, Bill became a certified Ham radio operator. In this role, he volunteered on Chester County’s Emergency Management Team, participating in emergency preparedness drills, and in a radio group that would facilitate communications in disaster situations.

 Bill was an avid amateur photographer, who took photos wherever he went, and did professional-quality portraits of his children, nieces, and nephews.  He also built his own darkroom where he processed and printed his photographs.

 He was active in his church, and a member of the Knights of Columbus.

 He was a devoted and loving husband, father, companion, and friend who will be greatly missed. 

 Relatives and friends are invited to Bill’s viewing Wednesday, February 28 from 10 AM to 11 AM at St. Maximilian Kolbe Church, 15 E. Pleasant Grove Rd., West Chester, PA, followed by his funeral Mass at 11 AM.   Interment will be at SS. Peter & Paul Cemetery, 1600 Sproul Rd., Springfield, PA.

 In lieu of flowers, contributions in Bill’s name to Penn Medicine Hospice would be greatly appreciated: Penn Hospice Development Office, 3535 Market St., Suite 750, Philadelphia, PA 19104.  Online: www.PennMedicine.org/hospice-donate.