Mr. James P. Hartranft

James Paul "J.P." Hartranft, 82, of Kutztown, passed away on Saturday, June 29, 2024 in Cornerstone Living, New Tripoli. Born in Perry Township, James was a son of the late Clifford A. and Verna I. (Adam) Hartranft and was a graduate of Kutztown Area High School, where he was a member of the Future Farmers of America (FFA). For his FFA project, J.P. engaged in raising and showing cattle. He spent a great deal of time training and preparing his cattle for showing and was presented with numerous awards including Outstanding Showman and Outstanding Fitter at the fairs where he showed them.

After graduation, J.P committed himself full time to the family farm operation in Kutztown, Berks County. He farmed with his parents until their retirement. He then went into partnership with his brother, Chester who was ready to leave the confines of his dental office. They continued operation for almost 40 years until their retirement in 2023 due to their age and Jim's declining health.

His hobbies included hunting, bowling, and backyard sports with his nieces and nephews, friends or relatives. Everyone was always welcome to take part in the fun. He enjoyed jumping into the family-built swimming pool with his nieces and nephews after working them hard on the family farm, for which they often expressed their appreciation for the work ethic he helped instill upon them. He has left his family with many fond memories over the years.

James is survived by his two brothers, Robert N., husband of Janice (Meck) Hartranft, Douglassville, and Dr. Chester D., widower of Joan D. (Telliho) Hartranft, and long-time companion of Betty Ann Davis, Kutztown; nieces, Cynthia (Hartranft), wife of Wayne Luckenbill, and their children, Sara and Daniel, Cathy Hartranft, wife of Guy Helsen, and their daughter, Heidi, Rebecca Hartranft, wife of Corwin Smith, and their daughter, Ruby; and nephews, Dru, husband of Liz Hartranft, and Timothy Hartranft.

A memorial service to celebrate and honor Jim's life will be held on Monday, July 8, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. in Ludwick Funeral Homes and Cremation Care, Inc., 333 Greenwich Street, Kutztown, PA, with PSALM Chuck Scharadin officiating. Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. in the funeral home. Burial will be held in Zion Moselem Church Cemetery, Richmond Township.

The family requests contributions be made to The Alzheimer's Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601 or online at www.alz.org.

Ludwick Funeral Homes and Cremation Care, Inc., Kutztown, PA is in charge of arrangements. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.Ludwickfh.com.