Jack L. Hartin

Jack "Dusty" Louis Hartin passed away on Saturday, April 6th, 2024, in West Saint Paul, Minnesota, concluding a life journey that began on November 6, 1952. Born in South Dakota, most of Jack's childhood took place in California where his father found work in construction.  His mother passed away when he was only 11, and he eventually, returned to the the state of his birth to live with his beloved grandparents, Mildred and Burnett Smalley at the age of 15.

Later, his service in the Marine Corps took him to the Vietnam War where his service would conclude with his honorable discharge, a National Defense Service Medal, Rifle Marksman Badge, and his Vietnam Service Medal. Once back in the US, his next phase in life began with his discovery and embracing of the Baha'i Faith, a spiritual path that would guide the rest of his life.

In Minnesota, Jack met Julie Emelia Koberstein, his future wife, who also adopted the Baha'i Faith. Together, they embarked on a life of shared beliefs and purpose. Sobriety marked a significant chapter in Jack's life, paralleling his dedication to his recovery community. The Hartins settled in the Black Hills of South Dakota, where they raised their four children, instilling in them the values of service and unity fundamental to the Baha'i teachings.

Jack was an adept house painter, his skills beautifying homes across South Dakota, and as far as Alameda, California. Returning to Minnesota later in life, he continued his trade and engaged in silo work, cherishing the camaraderie and work shared with close friend Dave Carpenter. Jack imparted his love for guitar to his sons and card-playing acumen to his daughters, enriching their lives with artistry and strategy.

His friendships spanned diverse backgrounds, embodying his belief in unity and the elimination of prejudice, core principles of the Baha'i Faith. Some of his deepest connections towards the end of his life were with his beloved friends in his recovery program who his family were happy he was connected to and serving along side of.

Jack's legacy lives on through his family: his wife, Julie Emelia Hartin, his son Benjamin Louis Hartin, his daughter Emily Irene Benson (her husband Nicholas and their children Berk, Lucas, and Mila), his son Andrew Marlin Jerome Hartin, and through the cherished memory of his daughter, Amy Lorraine Hartin who he is now catching up with, perhaps over a heavenly game of cribbage. He is also survived by his sister Mary DeLong(Rob).

His life will be commemorated on Tuesday, April 9th, with a service at Fort Snelling, followed by a reception at the Baha'i Center of Minneapolis, celebrating a life rich in faith, love, and service while we enjoy each other's company and a light lunch provided by the Baha'i community. (Gluten free options will be included.)

Funeral and Reception Details:

- Meet at O'Halloran & Murphy Funeral Home (575 Snelling Ave. S, St Paul, MN 55116) between 10:30 and 11:00 for flag distribution.

- The escorted procession departs for the service at Fort Snelling at 11:00.

- Funeral at Fort Snelling starts at 11:30.

- Reception at the Baha'i Center of Minneapolis (3644 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55407) beginning at 12:30.

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