Obituary of Roger William Hartz

A private committal at sea will be held for Roger Hartz who passed away unexpectedly at his Santa Cruz home on Friday, February 14th. Born in South Bend, Indiana, he earned his Bachelor's Degree in Geology from Ball State University. He served his country in the US Marine Corps, and after finishing his college education, he moved to Santa Cruz 40 years ago. Mr. Hartz was employed in Menlo Park, at The United States Geological Survey and later in San Jose for Haley Engineering. His career in engineering and construction spanned over 35 years. He leaves many friends and colleagues that he worked with through the years. He was very proud of his son Kyle, and enjoyed watching him participate in all of his athletic endeavors, and was a familiar face in the bleachers at the Santa Cruz High baseball games. He enjoyed all types of sports, particularly Baseball, Football, Surfing and Golf. There will be many cherished memories of Roger telling his friends and family about the time he went to Cuba while his son played on the USA baseball team. Mr. Hartz leaves behind his beloved son Kyle Hartz of Santa Cruz, Kyle's godfather and dear friend, Rick Nelson, of Santa Cruz, and a host of friends, and extended family that will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his wife, Laurie Hartz who passed away on December 7, 1984. If you would like to light a candle online, and share your thoughts and reflections, please visit www.pacificgardenschapel.com. Roger felt very strongly about trying to help soldiers coming back from war. If you would like to make a donation in his memory, please do so through www.solidersuicideprevention.org/