Robert "Salty" Thomas Hartzell

Robert Thomas “Salty” Hartzell, 81, of Washington, died on Wednesday, January 11, 2012, in his home. He was born on March 11, 1930, in Washington, a son of Robert L. and Ruth Mounts Hartzell. A 1948 graduate of Trinity High School, he was a drummer in the marching band for 4 years and also played on the baseball team. Mr. Hartzell served in the Pennsylvania National Guard before joining the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. He boxed during his time in the Navy. After discharge from the Navy, he went to California and worked for Air Products making liquid oxygen for the first rockets of the space program. Upon returning to Washington, he started a plumbing and heating business and did installations for Montgomery Ward and Sears. A lifetime member of the Arden Club, he also belonged to AARP and Edwin Scott Linton Post 175 of the American Legion. He also played on numerous baseball and softball teams in Washington Mr. Hartzell was an award-winning gardener, having received many awards for best-in-show at the County Fair. He was especially well known for his onions and tomatoes. Mr. Hartzell enjoyed hunting. On November 18, 1964, he married Violet Bieda, who died on July 7, 2000. Surviving are a daughter, Terri L. Hartzell, of Washington; 2 stepsons, John J. and Mark Musante, both of Washington; a step daughter, Gayle M. Lane, of Washington; a sister, Barb (William) Brenner, of Washington; 3 grandchildren, Shelby McAllister, Ebby Phillips and Pam Hillier; 3 great grandchildren, Nash Phillips, Lexi McElhaney and Jacob Hillier, and several nieces and nephews. Deceased are a sister, Jean Ankrom and a brother, Don Hartzell. Friends will be received on Sunday, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m., in the William G. Neal Funeral Homes, Ltd., 925 Allison Ave., Washington, PA 15301, where a Blessing Service will be held on Monday, January 16, 2012, at 11:00 a.m., with Father Felix Pyzowski officiating. Burial will follow at the Chartiers Hill Church Cemetery. Military Rites will be accorded graveside by the Edwin Scott Linton Post 175 of the American Legion.