Obituary of Austin Hartmann

West Sparta- Austin E. "Mush" Hartmann passed away unexpectedly in his life-long West Sparta home on October 13, 2011, at age 89. He was born in West Sparta on January 30, 1922, a son of the late Floyd and Gladys (Martin) Hartman. He was also predeceased by his brothers Leon and Edwin. Mush graduated from Dansville High School in 1939 where he was Senior Class President. He was a contractor with Soil Conservation for 44 years, retiring at age 72. Mush was a long-time member of the Dansville Presbyterian Church, serving as Elder, Trustee & Choir member. He spent many years in scouting as Scout Master & Cub Master of Troop 40. He was a 21 year member of the West Sparta Town Board and was active on the Dansville hospital and school boards. He belonged to the Phoenix Lodge # 115 of the F&AM, and served in the National Guard and recently received membership to the Sons of the American Revolution. Mush's interests included family, music, hunting and history, specifically the Civil War. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Elsie, children Peter (Alice) Hartmann (Ohio), Wendy (Eric) Melenbacker (Fairport), Roxanne (David) Matthews (Vermont), Marsha (Edward) Freeman (Penfield), Laurie (Timothy) Perry (Dansville), Elizabeth (Jeffrey) Witherell (Tennessee), 13 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. Friends may call Monday from 1:00 to 3:00pm at the Dansville Presbyterian Church where services will follow at 3:00pm. Interment will be in Greenmount Cemetery, Dansville. Online remembrances may be left at HindleFuneralHome.com. Ref. Hindle Funeral Home, Inc., 271 Main St., Dansville. In lieu of flowers please make memorial contributions to the Dansville Presbyterian Church, 3 School St., Dansville, NY 14437.