Phillip Edward "Phil" Hartley

Phillip E. “Phil” Hartley, 83, of Syracuse, IN joined Jesus & God in heaven at 6:15 a.m. on Saturday, October 8, 2016 at his home. His journey with cancer was long and hard but Phil knew his Lord was with him which gave him peace. He was born on November 13, 1932 in Muncie, IN to Harry & Velma (Morgan) Hartley.

He graduated in 1950 from Muncie Central High School and attended Ball State in Muncie. He lived most of his life in the Muncie area and moved permanently to Syracuse after spending many summers and weekends at the lakes in Kosciusko County. He was married to Dixie Zaph who preceded him in 1977 and then on September 3, 1978 in Warsaw, IN he married Janet S. (Nottingham) Mesaros who survives. He retired in 2002 as owner / operator of Hartley Insurance Agency in Muncie after 30 years, where he represented 24 independent companies. He also formerly owned a Pepperidge Farm distributorship and worked at Colonial Bakery in Muncie.

He was a Member of the United Methodist Church in North Webster and a former member of the Lion’s Club, Elks Lodge, and Jr. Achievement in Muncie. He also formerly served as an advisor to the State Auto Insurance Company.

Phil had a positive attitude with a wonderful sense of humor. He was the owner of the Crazy Horse Farm in Gaston, IN where he raised Appaloosa horses. He loved boating and all the water activities and spent weekends at the lakes.

He is survived by:

Wife – Janet Hartley of Syracuse

Daughter – Nancy (Matt Rutkowski) Lephart of Williston, FL

2 Sons – Steven (Cindy) Hartley of Syracuse & Jack (Debi) Hartley of Sarasota, FL

2 Step Sons – Jeff Mesaros of Syracuse & Marc (Shannah) Mesaros of Muncie

17 Grand & 22 Gt. Grandchildren

He was preceded in death by his parents, son – Rusty Hartley, grandson – Cory Hartley, sister – Dorothy Woodring, and 2 brothers – Dick & Bill Hartley.

Private family graveside services will take place at McClintic Cemetery near Syracuse.  A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 12, 2016 at the United Methodist Church, 7822 E. Epworth Forest Rd, North Webster, IN with Pastor Robert Dailey of the church officiating. Owen Family Funeral Home, 1001 S. Huntington St, Syracuse, IN is in charge of all arrangements.

Memorial bequest may be given to United Methodist Church, 7822 E. Epworth Forest Rd, North Webster, IN 46555. Envelopes are available at the church.