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1923
2016
Robert J. "Jim" Hartnett, age 93, resident of Oak Park, formerly of Western Springs, passed away October 27, 2016. Beloved husband for 69 years of the late Lucille, nee Donovan; loving father of Susan (Dennis Rosenbaum), Mary Ann, Patrick (Kimberly), David (Lee Ann) and Jimi (Jean) Hartnett; dedicated grandfather of Sarah, Erica (Boe), Andrew, Alex, Katie, Steven, James, Audrey, Liam and Shannon; great-grandfather of Jayla, Jordan and Lila; dear uncle of many and fond brother of Thomas (Rosemary); Bernard; Harold (Diane); Raymond (Joyce) and the late Francis (late Jan) Hartnett.
Jim's life was marked by service to others. He served in WWII as a pilot, commandeering the B17 bomber on many dangerous missions. From this experience he instilled a strong sense of strength, courage and integrity in his children.
Nearly every night he sat at his children's bedsides and told imaginative and adventure-filled stories that he created on the spot, and the tradition continued on with his grandchildren. He was always generous with his time and was often called the "den mother" of the neighborhood, making up fun games for all. He was a craftsman and a handyman, which included adding a second story to the family home, building toys for kids, and regularly fixing anything that needed fixing for his family and neighbors. His dedication to, and love of his family was demonstrated by his presence and support of his children during their most difficult times.
Jim built, from the ground up, a highly successful court reporting business in Chicago, Hartnett & Catellani, and was always on a quest to bring innovation to the field of court reporting. He gave one-on-one attention to each of his court reporters, helping them overcome personal obstacles and contributing to their professional growth. He ran his business with the utmost integrity, always taking the "high road." Jim was a religious man who devoted many of his Sundays to teaching religious classes at his church. He loved to dance with his wife, play golf and tennis with his friends, and sail on Lake Michigan with his family. Jim had a dry sense of humor which became more potent with age. He had a life well-lived with his wife of 69 years. He will be missed enormously for so many reasons. All the love he gave lives on in all the many lives he touched.
Visitation Tuesday 3-9 PM at Woodlawn Funeral Home, 7750 W. Cermak Rd., Forest Park. Family and friends will meet Wednesday for 9:45 AM Funeral Mass at St. John of the Cross Catholic Church, 5005 S. Wolf Rd., Western Springs, IL. Interment Queen of Heaven Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Catholic Relief Services, P.O. Box 17090, Baltimore, MD 21297-0303. Info: www.woodlawnchicago.com or 708-442-8500.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
December 18, 2017
Coworker
Elaine Husayko (Sonios)
As I said in Mrs. Hartnett's obituary, I started working for Mr. Hartnett in 1969 when there were approximately 10 court reporters. Mr. Hartnett was always a dedicated, thoughtful and caring boss and friend. I miss the old days at Hartnett and Catellani. I've never forgotten either one of you. You have a special place in my heart and life with many memories.
It hurts me a lot to have found both of you in this way. I know you are happy to be re-united in heaven and are watching over your whole family because that is who you are. You had it all, especially an eternal love for each other and the knowledge and love you passed on to your children and grandchildren.
May you rest in peace.
Elaine and Bob Husayko
April 22, 2017
Maureen Mulville
Sorry to just learn of Jim's death. We Mulvilles and especially our parents, Dick and Marge, treasured the friendship with Jim & Lucille. He was a honor to his generation--a WWII pilot, starting his business in court reporting and sailing Lake Michigan. We miss them all--Jim & Lucille and Dick & Marge. My condolences to his children.
Maureen Mulville
November 4, 2016
LaTherese Cooke
My condolences to the family of Mr. Hartnett. When I first started teaching court reporting, he was on our Advisory Board. I learned a lot from him and enjoyed the court reporting adventures he would share.
November 3, 2016
Patrick Pentel
I have many fond memories of Uncle Jim and his whole family. Another great person is at eternal rest with our Lord.
October 31, 2016
Pauline Strohl
I worked as a court reporter for Mr. Hartnett starting in 1973. He was a wonderful mentor. He ran his business with the utmost professionalism. We always felt protected and guided by his knowledge and experience. He did have a great sense of humor and a great calm and strength. I worked for him and with him for over 30 years. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, which he cherished. He is now together with Lucille in heaven. God bless his family.
October 29, 2016
James Hartnett
October 29, 2016
Grandpa Jim was such a huge part of the Hartnett family. Some of the most held and cherished memories were playing board games, sports and usually having a great time. Grandpa may not be physically here, but he is etched in our hearts forever, and dancing with all of his loved ones in heaven. Furthermore, Grandpa will be missed by many, but never forgotten by the ones he has influenced.
Love,
James Hartnett
Grandson of Jim Hartnett
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