Bobby N. Hartog, 88, of Valparaiso, IN, passed away on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 blissful years, Opal; his loving children: Jeff (Kari) Hartog, and Susan (Douglas) Estes; cherished grandchildren: Lauren Estes, Rebecca (Nathan) Lewis, and Jonathan Estes; treasured great grandchildren: Braelynn Estes, and Emma, Addison, and Mackenzie Lewis; dear sister, Janet Guritz; and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Nicholas and Emma Hartog; brothers: Jake and Elmer Hartog; sisters: Helen Bakker and Caroline Segert; and daughter-in-law, Lora Hartog.

Bobby was born in Hammond, Indiana, on August 18, 1937, and spent the majority of his life residing in Gary, Indiana. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1955, where he made lifetime friendships aboard the USS Beatty Destroyer. He often proudly told stories about his time in the Navy to anyone who would listen and he firmly believed that every young man should join some branch of the service to become a man.

He met the love of his life, Opal, and they were married on September 29, 1962. They were blessed with two children, Jeffery and Susan, who in turn blessed them with three grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Bobby’s family was his greatest pride and joy, and they knew that they were loved with every bit of love he had to give.

He had only a few hobbies – he enjoyed woodworking and gardening with Opal, but he loved spending most weekends with his grandchildren as they were growing up more than anything else.

Bobby was a millwright at Union Tank Car Company and retired after 43 years of dedicated service.

His passing will leave a hole in the hearts of many, but we rejoice in a future reunion in Heaven with him one day.

Visitation will be Tuesday, February 24, 2026, from 10:00 AM until time of service at 12:30 PM at Rendina Funeral Home (5100 Cleveland Street, Gary, Indiana 46408). Interment with military honors to follow at Calumet Park Cemetery, Merrillville.
For information, call 219-736-5840.