Carla Hartwick

In loving memory of Carla Minnette Hartwick/Shooks, born on March 13, 1960, at Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to parents Carl Louis Shooks and Joyce Lorraine Shooks. She passed away and went to be with the Lord on May 10, 2024.

She is survived by her sister, Loretta Shooks/Veltkamp, and brother-in-law, Ron Veltkamp; her nieces and nephews, Hillary and Rocky Veltkamp, Tim Veltkamp, Jazmyn Veltkamp, and Jonathyn Shooks; her son, Carl Hartwick; daughter-in-law, Kayleigh Hartwick; and granddaughter, Lucille Jean Hartwick, as well as cousins Robert Shooks and Pam Boylan.

Carla was raised in Grand Rapids until 1968 before moving to Sparta, Michigan. She was educated at Sparta Area Schools, participated in the track team, attended Camp Lake Church, and received baptism at Long Lake.

Carla forged lasting friendships and cherished memories. One such memory was her attempts to ride a stubborn horse named Daisy to the local store—a trip that should have taken 15 minutes but often turned into a 2 or 3-hour journey due to Daisy's reluctance. Despite the challenges, Carla adored Daisy and often reminisced about the great times they had.

She also enjoyed playing with friends on the hills and trails, riding various off-road vehicles around the lake, and gathering around great bonfires. Carla worked at Handy Wacks Corporation in Sparta for 21 years, alongside many of her dear friends, for which she was both fortunate and grateful.

Carla's most beloved place was in Baldwin, Michigan, at the cabin on the Pere Marquette River. There, she spent time with friends, riding trails, fishing, canoeing, and simply enjoying life. Carla was known for her kind and giving heart—if she cared for you, it was unmistakable, as she would generously provide anything you needed.

For memorial donations, please consider the North Kent Eagles located at 186 East Division, Sparta, MI 49345, where she was a member. A donation jar will be available at the Eagles, or you may send your contribution to the aforementioned address.

The Celebration of Life event is scheduled for June 22nd at 1:00 p.m., located at 149 Hull, Sparta, MI 49345. Reverend Melvin Hesselink will officiate the service. Following the ceremony, a grilled luncheon will be provided. We will furnish all the essentials such as cups, beverages, plates, napkins, bowls, and a selection of meats and side dishes. We appreciate the support we have received. Your presence and any dishes you would like to bring are greatly appreciated.

Rest peacefully, sister, liberated from pain and suffering, cradled now in the arms of Jesus. Your absence is deeply felt, yet there is comfort in knowing you rest in peace.