Robert 'Bob' Hartson

Robert “Bob” “Tine” R. Hartson, 87, of Merrill, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2026, at Aspirus Merrill Hospital surrounded by family. Born on December 19, 1938, in Lincoln County, WI, Bob was the son of Robert and Pearl (Burns) Hartson.

Bob honorably served in the United States Army from November 1961 until November 1963

during the Vietnam War, and was stationed at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. After his service, he married Joan Schmidt on April 18, 1964.

Bob spent many years working in construction as a union laborer, where he made a name for himself as a hard worker. In addition to this, in his younger years he served as a Constable for the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department and ran a logging operation. He spent his life helping others and was known by friends and family for his ability to fix anything. Bob was always willing to lend a hand whether that meant providing a spare tire or gas to a stranger in need, a ride into town for a broken down vehicle, or caring for the many stray dogs that wandered in.

Bob found great joy in spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, teaching them many life skills along the way. He also enjoyed helping out with chores at his son’s farm. He was known as a ‘food bully,’ and nobody ever left his home without a donut or candy bar to go. The grand-dogs were not left out, and he always travelled with treats to give to Sarge, Oliver, and Casey. Bob had a deep love for the outdoors, whether it was watching wildlife or enjoying bear, deer, and turkey hunting. This was a passion he shared with his family leaving many lasting memories. He was also a member of St. Stephens United Church of Christ.

Bob is survived by his wife, Joan Hartson of Merrill; son, Robert ‘Rob’ J. Hartson of Merrill;

grandchildren, Robert ‘R.T.’ (Maria) Hartson of Merrill and Ellie Hartson (Jacob Krueger) of Virginia Beach, VA; great-grandchildren, Robert G. ‘Bo’, Colter, and Lainey; sister, Evelyn (Ben ‘Butch’) Chrusniak of Mosinee; sister-in-law, Nona Zortman of Merrill; and many nieces and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Pearl Hartson; in-laws, Lester and Helen Schmidt; sisters, Doris (Rudy) Gustin, Gladys (Willie) Gustin, Mildred Hochstetler, Lucille Hartson, and Charlene (Ray) Meyer; brother, James (Dorothy) Hartson; brother-in-law, William ‘Bill’ Zortman.

The memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M., Thursday, September 10, 2026, at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & and Cremation – 301 Eagle Dr., Merrill. The family will receive friends beginning at 9:00 A.M., Thursday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Robert’s name may be made St. Stephens United Church of Christ or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation, Merrill, is assisting the family. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinewaid.com