Glenda Rae Hartje

Glenda Rae (Bryden) Hartje, 79, found peace and was reunited with her husband Terry, son Brytten, and many friends and family members on Tuesday, March 12, at Generations at Neighbors in Byron, IL. The sun shone on her face and we have no doubt she could hear ocean waves as she left her failing body for a new life, free from pain.

Glenda was born July 2, 1944, in Rockford, IL, to Charles and Wilda Bryden. She married the love of her life, Therr “Terry” Hartje, on September 20, 1969. He predeceased her in April of 2018—almost making it to 50 years of marriage.

Glenda was always on the go—ready to live each moment. She had a full life teaching water aerobics, running sports clubs, traveling to her happy place (any beach in Florida) and theme parks across the country, and attending all of her sons’ and grandchildren’s events—she was the best hockey grandma. Glenda was the number one supporter and was happiest when surrounded by family. Her support and determined spirit will be greatly missed.

Glenda is survived by her sons, Shane (Amy) Hartje and Kyler (Cassie) Hartje; grandchildren, Logan and Zoey Hartje and Max and Madi Helms; brother Bob Bryden; sisters-in-law Loretta Rose and Sally (Gary) Engbert; brother-in-law Kenny (Sally Jo) Hartje; many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her husband Terry; infant son Brytten Hartje; parents Charles and Wilda Bryden, brothers Michael Bryden, Joe Bryden and Jim (Bev) Bryden; sister Judith Bryden; sister-in-law Sandy Bryden; and in-laws Rudy and Bonnie Hartje.

Funeral service will be held Saturday, March 23, at 11 a.m. with a visitation from 10 a.m. until the time of service at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S Mulford Rd, Rockford, IL 61108. Burial will take place in Arlington Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the family for a memorial to be established in her name.

Special thanks to Serenity Hospice and the staff at Generations at Neighbors for their excellent care in her last days.