J. Patrick Hartle, known as Pat, 78, of Warrensville, died Saturday, September 8, 2018 at Geisinger Medical Center surrounded by family and longtime friends. He was born March 18, 1940 in Drifting, PA.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Christine Hartle, and maternal grandparents, Orvis and Regina Hartle, all of Drifting, PA.
Surviving are his wife of 36 years, the former Trish Prince Hartle, at home; a son, Josh Hartle, of Rt. 87 Hwy.; stepson, Darryl Stroble, of Williamsport, and a stepdaughter, Shawn (Bill) Gatz, of Montgomery.
Pat graduated from Lock Haven High School and served honorably in the Marine Corps from 1958-1961. He was a self-taught carpenter and retired after 34 years as a Maintenance Supervisor for Hope Enterprises. He enjoyed restoring antique lawn tractors and was always working/tinkering on one of his projects either in the garage or basement (where everything was in its place), he was never idle.
Pat was a “Bulldoger” for many years. Meaning he was passionate of the bulldog breed which he raised and showed for many years. In 1979, he was listed in the charter group of the Hall of Fame of the BCA (Bulldog Club of America). His name appeared in three different categories of the Hall of Fame. Pat was recognized for having a dog that sired 10 or more champions, having a dog that sired 10 or more American Kennel Club registered Champions, and breeding 10 or more AKC Champions.
He was also the recipient of the George Beckett Award, which is presented to a breeder who has the top producing sire or bitch during a five year period.
Pat loved any dog, but especially the Bulldog, Bull Terrier, and the French Bulldog breeds. For the past three years, Pat’s canine companions have been Rudy and Gunner, both Frenchies, whom he dearly loved.
A funeral service honoring Pat’s life will be held 11 a.m., Thursday, Sept. 13, at Spitler Funeral Home, 733 Broad St., Montoursville with Pastor David Hart officiating. Burial will follow in Twin Hills Memorial Park with military honors accorded by the Honor Guard of Lycoming Co. Korean War Veterans. A viewing for family and friends will be from 10-11 a.m. at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Lycoming Co. SPCA, 2805 Reach Rd., Williamsport, PA 17701 or Susquehanna Health Foundation, c/o Home Care and Hospice, 1001 Grampian Blvd., Williamsport, PA 17701.
