Stephen Allan Hartwig

Stephen A Hartwig, 69, of Martin City, MO passed away peacefully on July 18th, 2025, at Menorah Medical Center in the care of hospice and with family and friends at his side. He died following a hard-fought battle with cancer. Steve was born to Frederick and Louise Hartwig on October 15, 1955, in Kansas City, Missouri but spent much of his youth in Roeland Park, Kansas. Steve attended and graduated from Shawnee Mission North High School, trying some college courses of study at Kansas State University, but soon realized that his interests were related to projects using his hands and his ability to understand all things mechanical.

Like his parents, Steve was passionate about his hobbies. He loved collecting and rebuilding dozers – specifically Case models. He worked tirelessly cleaning them up and getting them running once again. His attention was also focused on cars, including a Model T Ford speedster and numerous other make and models of tractors, cars and related equipment. Steve was often spotted driving his Model T speedster around town.

Steve was an avid lifelong tennis player, participated in Civil War reenactments, and enjoyed ballroom dancing. Steve and his award-winning show mule would enter numerous competitions and were highly competitive in both jumping and barrel racing. When his last jumping mule “Bone” wasn’t competing, he was making appearances with Steve at birthday parties for his nieces and nephew or exploring the Blue River parkway and trails.

Steve followed his parents’ example in their dedication to their Lutheran faith, including their faithful support of The Lutheran High School of Kansas City, and the Metropolitan Lutheran Ministry.

Steve is survived by his brothers, Fred Hartwig, Lone Jack, Missouri (Liz Wade of Kansas City, Kansas); and David Hartwig (Anita) of Kingsville, Missouri; and by his ever adoring and adored twin sister, Susan Hartwig of Maysville, Missouri, as well as by his nephew, Jim, and nieces, Emmy, Lou, Alex and Veronica, and their respective families.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, July 26 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. with a service to follow, at Bethany Lutheran Church, 9101 Lamar Avenue, Overland Park, Kansas. A graveside service will follow at Johnson County Funeral Chapel and Memorial Gardens, 11200 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Kansas. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Lutheran High School of Kansas City at 12411 Wornall Road, Kansas City, MO 64145.