This tribute letter to Jim from his daughter appeared as an
obituary on the website of Bergh Funeral Service of Oroville, Washington:

James Hartig
(January 11, 1943 - March 6, 2017)

James Monroe Hartig
“Whiskey Jim”
1943 - 2017

Dad,

You packed my diaper bag and loaded me in the sleeper of your semi and took me to work with you every day. Thank you for that, for I had learned what it means to have good work ethics and was able to pass that on to your grandchildren. They say there’s always “one in the bunch” but I somehow was blessed with four good ones!

You allowed me to stand on the seat of your truck instead of being buckled in at 4 yrs old while driving down the road singing Crystal Gayle, Johnny Cash and Loretta Lynn. Thank you for that, for I learned that you should always sing as if no one is watching. (But I do enjoy my “longhaired hippy music” on a regular basis.)

You were raising a teenage daughter as a single dad in a cabin on a mountain with no running water or electricity. Thank you for that, for I learned what it is to find strength in tough situations.

Yes, you made a few poor choices along the way…but not once did I ever know about it. Thank you for that, for I learned how to protect my children.

I too made a few poor choices along the way and you were always there. Thank you for that, for I learned how to make mistakes with grace and be there without judgement for my own children.

You loved your life, your family and your friends. You were the hardest worker I know and lived such a simple life. There are so many stories that I could share but l will keep them in my own memories. I miss you so much.

Melanie

For family and friends, a Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, May 13, 2017 - 11:00 a.m. at the Eagles, Tonasket, WA.

http://www.berghfuneralservice.com/fh/obituaries/obituary.cfm?o_id=4174718