PHILLIP HARTZHEIM

Philip A. Hartzheim, age 69, was called home to the Lord with his family by his side on Monday, December 6, 2021. He was born on December 10, 1951 to the late Floyd and Anita Hartzheim and resided in Kaukauna. He married Bonnie Merckx on January 16, 1971 and they were blessed with three children.

The most important thing in Phil's life was Jesus. He was a Born Again Christian, and his relationship with God blossomed in the most challenging of times. He had complete trust in God's plan, and found profound strength in his faith. There was little he enjoyed more than sharing the Gospel. 

God gifted Phil's family with an entire day of visiting, telling jokes, sharing stories, and expressing their love before he passed. Phil's relationship with God was most apparent in the end. He recited Numbers 6:24-26 to comfort his family, “The Lord bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.” Phil knew that this world was not his home, and he was looking forward to his everlasting home in heaven. 

Phil had a special place in his heart for the underdog, and he touched many lives along the way. His entire career was dedicated to caring for adults who have disabilities. Phil also found joy in serving others, be it family, friend, or stranger. He had a passion for music, and from a young age enjoyed singing for others. Above all, Phil was a family man. He made his wife, children,  grandkids, and grandpuppies the center of his life. 

Phil is survived by his wife Bonnie Hartzheim; children Keely (Justin) Wilson, Quinn (Brian) Van Asten, and Alex (Kristin) Hartzheim; grandchildren Trent (Allyson), Shaylan, Callen, Sienna, Aemin, and Emmett; brother Mike Hartzheim, mother-in-law Laura Merckx, brothers-in-law Tom (Sue) Merckx and Tony Schlute, sister-in-law Kay (Bruce) Petros, along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. He was preceded in death by his sister Pam Schlute and father-in-law Frank Merckx.

A memorial service is planned for Thursday, December 16th at 1:00 at Calvary Bible Church in Neenah. In keeping with Phil's love for sweets, a dessert reception will follow. Masking is appreciated to protect the family's sensitive immune systems.  An additional celebration of Phil's life will be held for family and friends this coming summer.