Michael Hartzog

Michael was born in Chateauroux, France to Charles C. Hartzog and Frances M. Hartzog; he was the first of three children. He flew solo for a short time, until he welcomed his sister Denita C. Hartzog into the family a year later. The two would be inseparable throughout their lifetime, as they were the best of friends. It was a surprise to both of them when 8 & 7 years later respectively, a third child was born, their little sister Valmy C. Hartzog.

Michael's life was full of adventure, as he did not turn away from anything daring and exciting. He celebrated life his way, doing the things he loved. He was an avid cyclist, and enjoyed hiking, photography, collecting movies, basketball, music, and art. He took pride in the beautiful landscaping jobs he would do throughout the community. This would lead him to starting his own business, and become the landscaper for several people in several communities. Their lawn was his lawn, and at times got him into trouble. It was funny thinking of his mom saying "Michael, you can't cut down the ladies rose bushes without her permission, even if you don't like them and they get in your way. She had a right to fire you!"

The family always spoke of the lifelong friends he acquired throughout his life. Particularly Darryl Frieson and Bernard Wesley, who were there from the beginning of time, and remained friends of his for over fifty years, Bernard had the pleasure of making his first appearance in the same hospital in France, within days of one another. Their mother's kinship brought the two together for life. Darryl Frieson affectionately referred to Michael as "Mike, my little brother." There wasn't a place Michael went where he didn't know someone. Regardless a person's status, Michael could be their friend. He was truly a comedian, with the talent to infuriate you in one breath, and make you laugh in the next.

The military career of his father Charles Hartzog, allowed for Michael to see some countries abroad, and much of the United States. This added to his resume of adventure allowing him the opportunity to take advantage of different activities such as water rafting, skiing, swimming, fishing, and camping, etc. in the various areas.

Michael was called home early in life, which is nothing we could question because God has a plan for each and every one of us. In his short 56 years, he just celebrated every facet of life... to the fullest. He adored the relationship he shared with his mother Frances Hartzog, whom he considered his best friend who was always in his corner, and his right hand lady. He had great affection and love for his sisters, loved his dog Lucky, and had pride in his nieces, his nephew, and his great niece.

Michael leaves to cherish his memories, his father Charles C. Hartzog (Ofelia), sisters Denita C. Hartzog and Valmy C. Hartzog Howard (Tony), his nieces Mikelle C. Agee-Odoms (LaVaughn) and Jade S. Hartzog, his nephew Jaxon D. Hartzog, and his great niece Zalia A. McCormick-Agee. He was preceded in death by his mother Frances M. Hartzog-White, and nephew Tyland S. Hartzog-Agee.