Tribute

Margalene J. Hartman, beloved mother, grandmother sister, daughter, and partner, peacefully passed away on September 18, 2023, in Surprise, Arizona, after a courageous battle with stage 4 cancer. She was 73 years old. Margalene, known affectionately as "Marge," was born on December 27, 1949, in Brainerd, Minnesota, to Donald and Alpha Haff. She spent her formative years in Pine River, Minnesota, and later moved to various places, including Colorado, before ultimately retiring to Arizona with her partner, Harold (Harry) Keller. For 20-plus years, Marge dedicated herself to a fulfilling career with the US Department of Commerce, the National Institute for Standards & Technology, she retired from the Department of Commerce in Boulder, Colorado in 2012. She was not only a dedicated professional but also an accomplished seamstress, artistic painter, and professional upholsterer, leaving a legacy of beautiful handmade creations, including original oil paintings & afghans, that her family cherishes. Marge's true joy in life came from the love she shared with her family. She leaves behind a daughter who will continue to feel her love above all else, Carrie (Todd) Hill, stepdaughter Dawn (Charles) Roper, and grandchildren Madison Hill, Aerik Hill, Travis (Jillian) Roper, and McKenzie Roper. She is also survived by her sister, Corlene Bartels, brother Bill (Barb) Getty, nieces Anita Geode, Stacy Hillman, Michelle Melenich, Georgianna Carlson, Cindy Pye, and nephew Clint Bartels. Harry, her partner of 13 years, loved and cared for her until the very end. Marge will be remembered as a hardworking, compassionate friend, a loving mother, and a devoted grandmother. She loved with her whole heart and made a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her absence creates a void that will be difficult to fill, but her memory will forever be a cherished blessing. A faithful Christian, Marge found comfort in her faith and believed in a place for her in heaven. Her legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering faith will live on in the hearts of those she touched. May her memory be a beacon of love and inspiration for us all.

Friends & Family