Robert E. Hartje, 70, passed away on Sunday, June 25, 2023 at his residence in Racine. Robert was born on April 30, 1953 in Reedsburg, WI., the son of Reuben Hartje and Norma (Nee: Decker) Jones. Robert married Virginia (Nee:Felix) on May 18, 1991 in Las Vegas, NV. He was employed as a truck driver  enjoying the open roads. When Robert and the family took vacations, he loved to drive the scenic back roads never going over the speed limit.  He  also loved to attend car and Rv shows. When he was relaxing at home, he enjoyed his favorite drink, a cold Miller High Life beer. His greatest joy  of all was being with his kids and spending time with his grandchildren. He will be deeply missed by his mom, Norma, his wife Virginia, and his  four children, Tony (Katrina) Perales, Juan (Lisa) Perales, Cynthia (Anthony) Shaw, and Joshua Braaksma. He will also be deeply missed by his nineteen grandchildren, Nicholas, Jessica, Patricia, Miranda, Virginia, Samuel, Joseph, Carlos, Tony Jr., Tito, Gabriella, Anthony, Arielle, Santianna, Joe, Carol Ann, Danastajia, Nydia, and Michael , twenty-two great grandchildren and many more who called him grandpa. He will be also missed by his two sisters, Jean and Holly, six brothers, Ray, Donald, Gary, Richard, Terry and Thom along with many nieces , nephews, relatives and friends. Robert is preceded in death by his father, Reuben, step-father Lloyd, step-mother Pauline, one son William Perales, and one great-grandson, Nico Jr. Services for Robert will be held on Saturday, July 8, 2023 at 12:00 P.M. in Strouf Funeral Home in Racine. The family will receive guests in the funeral home on Saturday, July 8, 2023 from 10:00 A.M until the time of service. Burial will be private per Robert’s wishes.