John Frederick Hartke, 53, of Waterford, passed away on August 6, 2023 as a result of injuries sustained in an accident. John was born December 26, 1969 to Elizabeth (Strom) and Frederick M. Hartke, Jr. He was soon joined by his brother, Jeffrey, where they enjoyed a childhood full of time spent outside; hunting, fishing, and exploring. He graduated from Xavier High School in 1988, leading the school to a state rifle championship the same year.

Besides nature, John loved people. This is reflected in his life's work as a firefighter and EMT for many years in the towns of Haddam and Waterford, and later with Electric Boat. Most recently he was a Safety Officer at Eversource.

Ever the avid outdoorsman, John could often be found enjoying time on his boat with his wife, Andrea, clamming, crabbing, or walking his beloved dog, Chase. While he loved the seasons of New England and living in Connecticut, Aruba was a second home and the source of countless family memories which will be cherished.

John's greatest pride was being a good husband, father, son, friend, and so much more. Anyone that knew John would tell you he was nothing if not reliable, always just a phone call away when you needed him. His gregarious and hospitable nature will be sorely missed.

John is survived by his wife Andrea (Brochu), children Arianna (Will) and Alexander, his parents Fred and Beth, and his brother Jeffrey (Marie). He is also survived by his mother in law, Helen Brochu, brothers and sisters in law, Karen (John) Capuano, Janet Bourgault, Gary (Sue) Brochu, and Lisa (Leonard) Radziwanowicz, loving nieces and nephews, Ian, Chelsea, Alyssa, and Brian, many cousins and a multitude of friends.

He was predeceased by his Paternal Grandparents Fred Sr and Anne and his Maternal Grandparents Charles and Bobbie, his Godparents Thomas Hartke &  Marcia Strom, father in law, Pete Brochu and brother in law, Gerard Bourgault. His dogs TJ, Jake, and Hunter were certainly waiting for him at the Rainbow Bridge.

His family would like to thank the First Responders as well as the Doctors, Nurses and the entire Surgical Intensive Care Unit of Yale New Haven Hospital for the excellent care they provided during his stay.

The family will receive visitors at Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver St., Middletown, on Saturday, August 12, 2023 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.  A funeral service will be held at 12 p.m. at the funeral home. A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local fire department or outdoor club. To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.

Fair winds and following seas, John.