Thursday, October 1, 2026
James Curtis Hartmann, 87, of Bluff Dale, Texas, passed away peacefully June 6, 2026.
Born Feb. 10, 1939, on the family ranch near Fredericksburg, Jim was the son of Lawrence Felix Hartmann and Gretchen Estella Jordan Hartmann. He was baptized and confirmed at Bethany Lutheran Church, where his faith journey began. His faith was a steadfast source of strength throughout his life.
Jim grew up farming and ranching alongside his family, helping raise Polled Hereford cattle, sheep, and goats, and developing a lifelong love for horses, hunting, and the Texas Hill Country. Some of his fondest memories were riding horseback with his grandfather, Opa Jordan, and working livestock on the family ranch. Although his life and career took him to many places, Fredericksburg and the ranch always held a special place in his heart.
A 1957 graduate of Fredericksburg High School, Jim played trumpet in the school band and went on to earn a degree in music from Texas Lutheran College (now Texas Lutheran University). He devoted much of his career to education, music, and service. He served as a band director, choir director, financial advisor, retail manager, ranch hand, and musician. He also served in the Texas National Guard. Following his call to ministry, he earned an Associate in Ministry degree and later served faithfully as a hospice chaplain for eight years, offering comfort and spiritual care to countless families.
He is survived by his wife Cathey Hartmann; step-daughter, Candice (Chad) Gunier; step-grandchildren Merritt, Haley, and Aiden, who affectionately knew him as "Opa"; siblings, Annabelle (Susie) Bryson, Paul Hartmann, Corinne (Reenie) Pehl, Sylvia (Tuttie) Geistweidt, and Lois (Baby) Waggoner; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Freddie Hartmann and ClintonHartmann.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
