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**Charles Whitney Hartkopf (1930 - 2025)**
Charles Whitney Hartkopf, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away in Brooksville, Florida, on June 2, 2025, at the age of 94. Born on December 26, 1930, in Camillus, New York, he was the son of Charles R. Hartkopf and Lumora W. Hartkopf, both of whom predeceased him. He was also preceded in death by his dear sister, Elizabeth (Hartkopf) McDuffie.
Charles spent his formative years in Camillus before moving to Brooksville, Florida, where he resided for the last 45 years. His faith journey began at the First United Methodist Church, where he found strength and community throughout his life.
A devoted family man, Charles is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Isabella W. Hartkopf, and her children, Michelle Norris, Lloyd Norris, and Ruby McGeehan. He is also survived by his two daughters from his earlier years in New York, Jill Hartkopf and Jacqueline Hartkopf Arnold. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Jennifer (Jenny) Munger, Steven Munger, Matthew Arnold, Julianne Arnold, Kevin McGeehan, Ruby (McGeehan) Spargo, and Lloyd McGeehan, as well as his great-grandchildren, Kevin J. McGeehan and Sophi Spargo.
Charles proudly served in the U.S. Army as a Private Light Weapons Infantryman during the Korean War. His bravery was evident as he was wounded in action twice, earning two Purple Hearts for his courageous service to his country.
In addition to his military service, Charles was actively involved in his community. He served as an Auxiliary and Reserve Deputy at the Hernando County Sheriff's Office and was a proud member of the "Old Fogies Club" of Brooksville. Known affectionately as "Pop-Pop," he cherished the time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, creating lasting memories through fishing, boating, and engaging in various projects together. He also enjoyed watching movies, often sharing his love for cinema with those he held dear.
Charles was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by all who knew him. A graveside service to honor his life and service will be held on June 5th at 1:00 PM at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Charles's memory, reflecting his spirit of generosity and love for others.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Charles Whitney Hartkopf, please visit our floral store.