James Hartenburg Obituary

James Hugh Hartenburg, an easy going husband, father, and grandfather, died on Saturday, October 25, 2025. James, 84, of East Lansing, formerly of Charlotte, was born on September 10, 1941, in Wheeler Township, the son of Lloyd and Dorothea (King) Hartenburg. Upon graduating from high school James attended Michigan Tech University where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering. Shortly after, while attending Detroit Bible College, he met Alta Smoll. They married on October 14, 1971, and spent the next 54 years creating lasting memories. James would pastor at a few community churches in the Howell area before joining MDOT to work as an engineer. At MDOT James designed overhead mass tower lighting for Michigan freeways. His children remember the countless miles traveling around the state and James pointing out the lights that he designed.

James enjoyed striking up a conversation with anyone, and would always find something in common with that person. Other hobbies he enjoyed included reading, watching westerns and history shows, and being active with his dogs. Anything with his grandchildren (especially attending their events) was the most important. He volunteered tutoring math to middle schoolers after retirement, and he always had a good story to tell. Above all, his proudest accomplishment in life was his family.

James is survived by his wife, Alta; daughters, Rachel (Troy) Latunski and Sarah Hartenburg; grandchildren, Alex, Sierra, and Tyler Latunski; and brother, Gerald (Judie) Hartenburg. He was predeceased by his parents.

Friends are encouraged to support James's family by sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com < http://www.prayfuneral.com >. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.