Donald J. Hartzell, age 77, of Hamilton, Indiana, passed away on Thursday, January 30, 2025. He was born on March 28, 1947 to the late Victor and Margaret (Valentic) Hartzell in Defiance, Ohio. Donald was a 1965 graduate of Defiance High School, and attended Defiance College and Trine University. On February 11, 1984 he married Jeanne McCoy Miller, who survives.

Donald was a very talented woodworker and took great pride in making rocking horses for his grandchildren, and furniture for his home. He enjoyed going to the lake and spending time with his family. Donald is survived by his loving wife Jeanne Hartzell of Hamilton, IN, his children, Thaddeus Hartzell of Alabama, Trish Hartzell of Sherwood, Peter (Regina) Hartzell of Alabama, Robert (Misty) Rathburn of Fort Wayne, IN, and Ronda (Jerl) Schlegel of Spencerville, IN. He also leaves behind  12 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, four brothers and one sister. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his great-granddaughter, Rosalie Hartzell, one brother and one sister. Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 6, 2025 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home South, Lawson/Roessner Chapel (1753 S. Clinton Street) in Defiance. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 pm at the funeral home, with Celebrant Deb Miller officiating. Donald will be laid to rest in Riverside Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the family. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.