Michael D. Hartje, age 70, of Reedsburg, WI, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at the Reedsburg Area Medical Center. He was born on December 16, 1955, in Reedsburg, the son of Virgil and Edith (Rudy) Hartje.

Mike was a 1974 graduate of Webb High School in Reedsburg, WI. On July 3, 1982, he was united in marriage to Susan A. Gerber at the Zion Lutheran Church in LaValle. This marriage was blessed with two children. He loved spending time at the family cottage on Lake Wisconsin, where he could often be found grilling, boating, relaxing and enjoying the outdoors. In his free time he enjoyed putting together model cars and airplanes, puzzles, woodworking, gardening and reading war history books.  An avid golfer, Mike also cherished time on the golf course as well as weekends grilling and spending time with his family.

Professionally, Mike was a co-owner of Hartje Lumber, Inc. in rural LaValle. This business was started by his late father, Virgil, and was a place he had worked at for 54 years. He was known for his strong work ethic and enjoyed talking and connecting with customers. Family was at the heart of Mike’s life.  Though his work life was busy, Mike rarely missed an opportunity to attend the kid’s sporting events while they were in high school and college, often traveling to watch them play and compete.  His greatest joy was spending time with his grandson, Jackson.  He also looked forward to relaxing vacations abroad with his wife, Sue.

Mike was a former member of the Reedsburg Lions Club, former member of the Reedsburg Area School Board, a member of the Reedsburg Country Club, and St. John Ev. Lutheran Church in Reedsburg.

He was preceded in death by his father, Virgil.

Mike is survived by his wife, Sue of Reedsburg; mother Edith of LaValle; children Matthew Hartje of Reedsburg, and Jennifer (Jason) Schlough of Lodi; grandson Jackson Schlough; sisters, Patricia (Russ) Lentz and Mary Hartje both of LaValle; several nieces and nephews along with other relatives and friends.

Funeral services for Mike will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at the Farber Funeral Home in Reedsburg with Pastor Kris Totzke officiating. Visitation will be held from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. on Monday, April 13 and again on Tuesday, April 14 from 10 A.M until the time of service at the funeral home.

Memorials of remembrance may be made to the Reedsburg Area Food Pantry, St. John Ev. Lutheran Church of Reedsburg, or a charity of your choice.