James L. Hartnett, Sr.

Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

Obituaries | The Tube City Almanac | July 16, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the death of James L. Hartnett of Liberty Borough, who peacefully passed away on July 14, 2025, at the age of 87 at his daughter's home. James, affectionately known as Butch, was born on December 18, 1937, and grew up in Port Vue, Pennsylvania. He was the son of the late James P. and Irene (Horvath) Hartnett and the husband of Michaeline (Benish) Hartnett. He lived a wonderful life as a devoted son, husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend.

James retired from U.S. Steel where he was a crane operator for more than 30 years. He was a member of Saints Joachim and Anne Parish and was very involved with not only the Liberty Borough Baseball and Softball Athletic Association but also Little Gladiators Football. He cherished his time with his family by going on annual vacations, watching his favorite Pittsburgh sports teams, and celebrating birthdays, holidays, and special occasions. He also enjoyed spending time with family and friends at his Cook Forest State Park cabin, playing cards, fishing, spotting deer and bear, hunting, canoeing and listening to oldies music. He was a great gardener and enjoyed providing his family and friends with 1 to 2 lbs. tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplants and zucchini on a regular basis. His family never needed to call a handy man because he could fix anything on his families "to do list".

Left to cherish his memory and celebrate his life is his loving wife of 65 years: Michaeline, his three children: Michaeline Kasa Brown, Jayne Hartnett, James Hartnett (Lisa), four grandsons: Michael Kasa, Matthew Kasa, Joshua Hartnett, Adam Hartnett and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Bridges Hospice for the compassionate care given to James and his family.

Arrangements were entrusted to Willig Funeral Home & Crematory and a private service will follow at a later date.

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.willigfuneralcremationservices.com.

Charles A. Danforth, Supervisor

Originally published July 16, 2025.

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