Paul C. Hartge, 81, of Shelby, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2026, at OhioHealth Grant Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio. Born on July 15, 1945, to John L. and Isabelle (Champion) Hartge, Paul was a lifelong resident of Shelby.

At the age of 20, Paul served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, completing four years of active duty. After his military service, he returned to Shelby, beginning a long and dedicated career as a welding mill operator at Copperweld Seamless Tube, where he worked for 46 years before retiring in 2011. In addition to his industrial work, Paul was a passionate farmer who cherished the outdoors, dedicating 45 years to farming as a beloved side pursuit.

Paul is survived by his wife, Abigail (Lewis) Hartge; his son, Billy J. Hartge of Shelby; and his step-sons, Ronnie (Heather) Shepherd and Kenny, also of Shelby. He leaves behind his grandsons Brock, Knox, Luke, Marshall, and Mike; his sisters, Pauline Ward of Florida, Carol Kegley of Ohio, and Patricia Beatty of Galion; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

He joins in eternal rest his parents, his infant son Terril Hartge, and his brothers Frances, Harold, Richard, John, Larry "Butch," and Don Hartge.

As per Paul’s wishes, no formal services will be held. The family welcomes condolences and memories shared online at www.barkdullfuneralhome.com.

The Barkdull Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to assist the Hartge family during this time. Paul will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.