GILFORD — Richard “Rich” John Hartman passed away at his home in Gilford, at the age of 83, on July 11, 2026.
Born on July 27, 1942, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Rich grew up in North Philadelphia and Cheltenham, before earning a bachelor of science in chemistry from Drexel University after studying at New Mexico Tech. He began his career in battery research and development with Gould Inc. and Surrette Battery before joining the New Hampshire State Police Crime Laboratory in 1988, as a criminalist, retiring in 2008, after more than 20 years of service.
Rich was defined by his curiosity, generosity, and love of the outdoors. An avid hiker, backpacker, traveler, photographer, and lifelong learner, he shared his passion for nature and exploration with family and friends. He devoted countless hours to his community through organizations including American Youth Hostels, the Pasquaney Snowshoe Club, the Lakes Region Art Association, local scouting, the Gilmanton Historical Society, and the Gilmanton Budget Committee.
Rich is survived by his sons, Daniel Hartman (Molly Mitchell), Andrew Hartman (Kris Hartman), and Matthew Hartman (April Opoliner); and his grandchildren, Parker, Eleanor, James, Oliver, Cleo, Caroline and Henry. He was predeceased by his parents, Walter and Mary Hartman, and his brother, Ronald Hartman.
A calling hour will be held from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 8, in the Carriage House at Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home, 164 Pleasant St., Laconia.
A memorial service will be held at 11:30 a.m., on Saturday, Aug. 8, also at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Sierra Club Foundation, 2101 Webster St., Suite 1350, Oakland, CA 94612, in honor of Rich’s lifelong commitment to preserving the natural world.
Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services/603Cremations.com, Laconia, is assisting the family with arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial, visit wilkinsonbeane.com.
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