Obituary of Betty Rae Hartwick

Betty Rae Hartwick, a beloved member of the Lodi community, peacefully passed away on April 1, 2024, at the age of 90. Born and raised in Lodi, California to Sam and Mildred Salas, Betty Rae’s life was a testament to unwavering kindness, boundless generosity, and profound love for her family and community.

Betty Rae’s deep-rooted connection to Lodi was evident in her extensive knowledge of its history and its people. Having spent her entire life in the town, she was a living repository of its stories, knowing not only individuals but also their family histories spanning generations. Betty Rae’s passion for personal and local history extended to genealogy, where she delved into her own family’s background with enthusiasm, eager to share her discoveries. With her passing,a treasure trove of historical knowledge is lost, leaving behind a void that will be deeply felt.

A graduate of Lodi Academy, Betty Rae’s love for music blossomed, leading her to become a talented pianist and organist. In 1953, she married her high school sweetheart, Wilton Hartwick, and together they embarked on a journey filled with love, raising three children: David, Frank, and Millie. Betty Rae and Wilton instilled in their children values of compassion, integrity, and service, laying the foundation for a family built on love and respect. 

In 1972, Betty Rae assumed leadership of the family business, Lodi Funeral Home, alongside her sister, Patsy Quinn. Over the next four decades, she touched countless lives with her genuine care and empathy, providing comfort to grieving families during their most difficult times. Betty Rae’s involvement in organizations such as the Soroptimist Club and her dedication as a church organist reflected her commitment to serving others and making a positive impact in her community. A true friend and mentor, Betty Rae possessed a unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life. In her later years, she embraced technology to stay connected, using platforms like Facebook to spread kindness and encouragement to friends both near and far. 

Betty Rae leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion that will be cherished by her surviving family: her sister, Patsy Quinn of Palm Springs, California; her children: David (Kimberli) Hartwick of Redding, California, Frank (Roxie) Hartwick of Acampo, California, and Millie Nightwalker of Ft. Collins, Colorado. She is also survived by her nine adoring grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, many nieces, multiple cousins, and second and third cousins. Betty Rae’s family was close-knit, and she served as its beloved matriarch.

A celebration of Betty Rae’s life will be held at Lodi Funeral Home on Friday, April 5, 2024 at 3 p.m. A reception will follow immediately at the Fairmont Seventh-Day Adventist Church. All who wish to attend are welcome to honor her memory. 
Interment will be private.

Betty Rae will be deeply missed but remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy of love, kindness, and historical knowledge will continue to inspire and uplift us all.