Gregory D. Hartwig

Obituary

Gregory Donald Hartwig, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2025, surrounded by family. He was 63 years old.

Greg was born on March 30, 1962, in Hutchinson, Minnesota to Donald Roy Hartwig and Marilyn Marie Hartwig. He grew up alongside his brothers, Jeffrey Paul Hartwig and John Michael Hartwig, in a home filled with love and support. From an early age, Greg demonstrated a strong work ethic, beginning his first job at the age of 15 at a local pizzeria. He later worked as a bouncer at Scallywags, a bar in Hutchinson, where he met the love of his life, Jody Lynn. Greg was also an avid athlete who participated in football, basketball, and baseball during his school years. His dedication to sports was accompanied by a number of injuries including broken noses and legs, but his passion never waned. His love for competition continued into adulthood through a men’s intramural volleyball league, where he proudly earned a tall trophy that he cherished.

After graduating from Hutchinson Vocational School, Greg began a distinguished career in the field of Non-Destructive Testing which eventually brought him to Texas. Throughout his professional life, he held leadership roles in nearly every company he joined, often serving as president. Greg’s credentials were exceptional. He was certified as an ASNT Level III and ISO 9712 in multiple disciplines including Magnetic Particle Testing, Penetrant Testing, Radiographic Testing, Ultrasonic Testing, and Visual Testing. He was also a Certified Welding Inspector and ISO 9000 Accredited Auditor. Very few individuals in the United States held all of these certifications, and Greg carried this distinction with great pride.

Greg's dedication to excellence extended beyond his workplace. He was a contributing member of several professional organizations including the American Petroleum Institute, the American Society for Nondestructive Testing, and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. In these roles, he helped shape important safety and quality standards within his industry. At the same time, he remained a committed volunteer within his community. Greg took great joy in participating in his daughters’ school events. He helped organize elementary carnivals, supported eighth grade dances, and played an active role in Project Graduation events for each of his daughters.

Family was at the center of Greg’s life. After college, Greg and Jody moved to Texas with their daughter, Jessica. Their family grew with the births of Stephanie and Brittany. For many years, it was just the five of them in Texas, which only strengthened their bond. Greg and Jody prioritized visits back to Minnesota during school breaks, ensuring that their daughters maintained strong relationships with extended family. Every choice Greg made was guided by his love and devotion to his family. He worked tirelessly to ensure their well-being and happiness.

Greg is survived by his wife, Jody Lynn Hartwig; his daughters, Jessica Branch and her husband Quintin, Stephanie Ellerbe and her husband Michael, and Brittany Deeton and her husband Mark; and his beloved grandchildren, Mackenzie, Harper, Riley, Grace, Jameson, and Miles. He is also survived by his mother, Marilyn Marie Hartwig; his brothers, Jeffrey and John Hartwig; and many aunts, uncles, in-laws, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Roy Hartwig; his father-in-law, Larry James Scherber; and his mother-in-law, Lana Pearl Scherber.

Greg’s happiest moments were spent with his family. He was a steadfast presence at his daughters’ and grandchildren’s events and loved being a part of their daily lives. He was also known for his love of grilling. He spent countless hours perfecting techniques and recipes and passed this love on to his children and grandchildren. The pool in the family’s backyard was another place of joy for Greg. Night swims with his grandchildren were among his most cherished traditions. Greg also looked forward to the annual fishing trips to Lake of the Woods with his parents, brothers, and nephews. On their final trip, he convinced his daughter Stephanie to join, making it all the more special.

Greg had a playful side as well. He enjoyed performing magic tricks, especially for his grandchildren. One Christmas, he received a magic kit that became one of his favorite gifts. His best trick was pretending to look through their ears to guess how many fingers he was holding up, leaving everyone laughing and amazed.

A devout member of St. Edith Stein Catholic Church in Katy, Greg served as both an Usher and Eucharistic Minister. His warm presence, infectious personality, and willingness to serve made him a beloved figure within the church community.

Greg Hartwig lived a life rooted in faith, love, integrity, and generosity. His legacy will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.