George "Randy" Hartwig

George “Randy” Hartwig, a devoted pastor, loving husband, and faithful servant of God, passed away on Saturday, June 13, 2026, under hospice care at his home. Throughout his life, Randy’s greatest passions were his relationship with the Lord and the life he shared with his beloved wife, Laurel. Memorial visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at Will Funeral Chapel in Mitchell. Private family interment will take place at Graceland Cemetery in Mitchell.

Randy was born on November 5, 1952, in Marshall, Missouri, to George Leland Hartwig and Jackie (Gaut) Hartwig. He grew up in Missouri and answered a calling to ministry that would shape the course of his life for decades to come. He graduated from William Chrisman High School in Independence and later earned his Doctorate of Ministry from Concordia University in St. Paul. On June 22, 1974, Randy was united in marriage to Laurel Baumgartner in Richfield, Minnesota.

As a longtime pastor, Randy faithfully served congregations in numerous communities. His ministry took him from Crystal City, Missouri, to Albany, Schenectady, Amsterdam, and Gloversville, New York. In 2013, Randy and Laurel moved to Mitchell, South Dakota and two years later became caretakers to Laurel’s parents.

Outside of ministry, Randy enjoyed working on his computer and spending time with his shiatzus, Cooper and Teddy. Above all else, Randy will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to God, his deep love for Laurel, and the compassion he showed to everyone he met.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Laurel of Mitchell; step father, Ronald Wright of Mitchell; and brother, Ronald (Charlotte) Hartwig of Holt, MO.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Jackie; and brother, Richard Hartwig.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." Matthew 25:23