Delores Hartwig

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     Our beloved mom, Delores “Dee” Marie Hartwig, 78, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 1st, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, love, and a bit of mischief. She was a feisty, independent spirit who wasn’t afraid to voice her opinion, yet had a heart of gold. Whether she was cracking a sarcastic joke or defending her family, Dee lived life on her own terms and encouraged us to do the same. Mom’s priority was family, and she was the glue that held our family together, ensuring we were always connected, supported, and loved. She was always there with a listening ear and a warm embrace. Mom was our rock growing up, rarely missing a school program or sporting event. Regardless of whether we were the star performers (which we weren’t) or warming the bench, her unwavering support was a constant in our lives.

     Mom created magical moments such as beautifully decorated holiday dinner tables, family get-togethers, gifts that required ingenuity and tools to open, and ongoing jokes such as the singing mechanical toy dogs. She cherished every minute spent with her grandchildren who lovingly called her “Out-of-Control Grandma”. They enjoyed ice cream for breakfast, Easter egg hunts, doing crafts, and playing games. She started an annual tradition of gifting each grandchild an ornament that represented a milestone or joy from that past year. She was their biggest cheerleader and their warmest hug. She was an incredible role model who taught her family the importance of compassion, hard work, and unconditional love. Her love, wisdom, and kindness will guide her children and grandchildren always. She has given us roots to remember where we came from and the courage and wings to fly.

     “I would like my family to know just how proud they have made me, not only for their accomplishments but also for the person they have become. The joy you have given me is great, from your laughter to the tricks you played on me, to just spending time together. By the way, the next time you trip, IT’S ME. Celebrate my life, for I will always be with you.”

     Delores was born on March 24th, 1947, to Cletus and Elizabeth (Feuerbach) Schaefer in Dunlap, Iowa. She was raised in Dunlap, attended country school and graduated from St. Joseph Catholic High School in 1965. On February 4th, 1967, Delores was united in marriage to Ronald Hartwig.

     Delores was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ron; four brothers, Melvin, Vincent “Butch”, Jerry and Roland Schaefer; and five sisters, Betty Thompson, Sharon Greer, Dorothy Bartz, Shirley Krajicek and Ruth Wagner. She is survived by her three children, Christopher (Tricia) Hartwig of Logan, Iowa, Anita (Jim) Walsh of Solon, Iowa and Jeffrey (Tracy) Hartwig of Des Moines, Iowa; five grandchildren, Taylor (Alex) Hartwig, Kacie (Colby) McIntosh, Kael Hartwig (fiancé, Jessie), Ashley Walsh (fiancé, Luke) and Ryan Walsh; four great-grandchildren, Brantley, Grayson and Coen Hartwig and Maeve McIntosh; and her loving companion, Larry Hicklin.